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Biblical Novels
Hannah: Mother of a Prophet
Journey back in time to the dusty roads of Shiloh and witness anew the story of Hannah and her son, Samuel.
Hannah is no longer a young woman. In the twilight of her life, she holds her memories close to her heart. Above all, she treasures the miracle of conceiving Samuel after years of barrenness and the promise she made to the Lord to release her child to the high priest Eli’s care to train and serve in the temple. But Samuel’s story does not end at the gates of the temple and neither does his family’s enduring legacy of faith, patience, and deliverance. In this richly detailed and sweeping fictional account of Samuel’s life as a prophet in the making, discover how his mother, Hannah, made impossible decisions guided by her deep and abiding love of God.
Biblical novels by H.B. Moore:
Esther the Queen
Ruth
Eve, in the Beginning
Deborah, Prophetess of God
Mary and Martha
Anna the Prophetess
The Moses Chronicles
Hannah, Mother of Prophet
Hannah is no longer a young woman. In the twilight of her life, she holds her memories close to her heart. Above all, she treasures the miracle of conceiving Samuel after years of barrenness and the promise she made to the Lord to release her child to the high priest Eli’s care to train and serve in the temple. But Samuel’s story does not end at the gates of the temple and neither does his family’s enduring legacy of faith, patience, and deliverance. In this richly detailed and sweeping fictional account of Samuel’s life as a prophet in the making, discover how his mother, Hannah, made impossible decisions guided by her deep and abiding love of God.
Biblical novels by H.B. Moore:
Esther the Queen
Ruth
Eve, in the Beginning
Deborah, Prophetess of God
Mary and Martha
Anna the Prophetess
The Moses Chronicles
Hannah, Mother of Prophet
224 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2022
14 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
H.B. Moore
35 books343 followersHeather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than seventy publications. She writes historical novels and thrillers under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt, the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in Utah. Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact
Blog: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Heather B. Moore All About Books
Literary awards: 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner
Alternate Goodreads Page: Heather B. Moore
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact
Blog: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Heather B. Moore All About Books
Literary awards: 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner
Alternate Goodreads Page: Heather B. Moore
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 6, 2022
HB Moore is a master at bringing the Bible to life. I've read the stories over and over and know them, but the way Moore writes allows for me to actually picture what life might have been like and personalizes everything.
Hannah is a strong and faithful woman. I loved reading about the family traditions and customs, and because I'm a mother too, I could feel her joy, sorrow, worries, and peace. This story of Hannah and her son Samuel was beautiful, inspiring, and tender.
I read this at the perfect time, as it almost exactly coincided with my Old Testament studies and now I can see this story with deeper meaning and in a different light.
Content: religion; talk of/descriptions of war; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Hannah is a strong and faithful woman. I loved reading about the family traditions and customs, and because I'm a mother too, I could feel her joy, sorrow, worries, and peace. This story of Hannah and her son Samuel was beautiful, inspiring, and tender.
I read this at the perfect time, as it almost exactly coincided with my Old Testament studies and now I can see this story with deeper meaning and in a different light.
Content: religion; talk of/descriptions of war; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
May 3, 2022
“The morning brought the sun, but it didn’t reach into Hannah’s heart.”
Oh, my word! This was one of the most tender, soul searching books I’ve read in a long time! Grab your Kleenex. I was in awe of the author’s ability to whisk me back to 1041 BC to the little village of Ramah, only 5 miles north of Jerusalem, and instantly bond with Hannah.
“The sound of babbling children should have brought a smile to Hannah’s face as she sat cross-legged on a cushion in her bedchamber. Instead, it only twisted her pain deeper, into that hidden place behind her breastbone where she suppressed her tears until all candles were blown out and her husband’s breathing had deepened. For the children weren’t her own, but Peninnah’s. Her husband’s second wife. A wife whom he’d never have chosen if Hannah had been able to conceive.”
For those of us in Hannah’s position, Moore has bottled up the emotions we’ve all dealt with and allowed others to feel what it’s like to be heartbroken, disappointed, resentful and the object of another’s judgement. I’d never before considered the pain and anguish of actually living with a second wife, one who was younger and could provide what you couldn’t. Not only that, but Moore has crafted her as extra cruel. I felt each lash of Peninnah’s sharp tongue!
“Giving in and giving up was the easier path.”
I loved Hannah and Deborah’s friendship and the times Deborah was able to be the go-between and help Hannah turn to God and begin healing. I loved watching the relationship Hannah had with God grow into something so beautiful. Hannah was brought down to her lowest where she had to dig deep and find her faith.
“If she truly believed that the Lord could provide, then did that mean her faith was weak?”
Reaching rock bottom gave Hannah the ability to deal differently with Samuel and identify with Abagail.
“Abigail is faithful. If anyone had reason to become bitter, it would be she, but she has only increased her compassion and service toward others.”
Hannah’s story has always touched me but I was thankful for Moore’s interpretation and her gentle reminder that we don’t always see immediate answers to our prayers and that we can use our experience to help another. Moore has such a wonderful way of expressing herself in writing; it taps into readers' emotions and envelops us in the narrative. This is a spectacular book.
I was generously gifted this advance copy by H.B. Moore, Covenant Communications, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Oh, my word! This was one of the most tender, soul searching books I’ve read in a long time! Grab your Kleenex. I was in awe of the author’s ability to whisk me back to 1041 BC to the little village of Ramah, only 5 miles north of Jerusalem, and instantly bond with Hannah.
“The sound of babbling children should have brought a smile to Hannah’s face as she sat cross-legged on a cushion in her bedchamber. Instead, it only twisted her pain deeper, into that hidden place behind her breastbone where she suppressed her tears until all candles were blown out and her husband’s breathing had deepened. For the children weren’t her own, but Peninnah’s. Her husband’s second wife. A wife whom he’d never have chosen if Hannah had been able to conceive.”
For those of us in Hannah’s position, Moore has bottled up the emotions we’ve all dealt with and allowed others to feel what it’s like to be heartbroken, disappointed, resentful and the object of another’s judgement. I’d never before considered the pain and anguish of actually living with a second wife, one who was younger and could provide what you couldn’t. Not only that, but Moore has crafted her as extra cruel. I felt each lash of Peninnah’s sharp tongue!
“Giving in and giving up was the easier path.”
I loved Hannah and Deborah’s friendship and the times Deborah was able to be the go-between and help Hannah turn to God and begin healing. I loved watching the relationship Hannah had with God grow into something so beautiful. Hannah was brought down to her lowest where she had to dig deep and find her faith.
“If she truly believed that the Lord could provide, then did that mean her faith was weak?”
Reaching rock bottom gave Hannah the ability to deal differently with Samuel and identify with Abagail.
“Abigail is faithful. If anyone had reason to become bitter, it would be she, but she has only increased her compassion and service toward others.”
Hannah’s story has always touched me but I was thankful for Moore’s interpretation and her gentle reminder that we don’t always see immediate answers to our prayers and that we can use our experience to help another. Moore has such a wonderful way of expressing herself in writing; it taps into readers' emotions and envelops us in the narrative. This is a spectacular book.
I was generously gifted this advance copy by H.B. Moore, Covenant Communications, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Want to read
March 26, 2022I've long been interested in the story of Hannah and her son Samuel. I wondered how could a parent send a child away to live somewhere else, even if it was a temple. How would it be to hand over your beloved son to another person to raise? Sure, Hannah was able to visit Samuel, but she possessed courage and faith that seemed unparalleled. She certainly became an inspiration of faith as I researched all that I could about her story and situation.
This story follows the experiences of Hannah, found in the book of First Samuel, as she deals with the trial of barrenness. Eventually her husband Elkanah decides to take a second wife so that he can raise posterity. Hannah continues her pleas to the Lord, until one day, while praying at the temple in Shiloh, she is approached by the high priest, Eli. When he inquires what she is so grieved over, Hannah tells him of her desire to have children, and he blesses her to conceive. Since Hannah has vowed to raise her son Samuel as a Nazarite and deliver him to the temple to serve there, her life is then shaped by this commitment and trial of faith.
Alternating viewpoints make up the story, including Hannah, Samuel, and a woman named Abigail. Hannah’s journey of learning to turn her will over to the Lord in all things, and put her complete trust in Him when faced with unsurmountable trials, became an important example to me as I navigate through my own trials in life.
This story follows the experiences of Hannah, found in the book of First Samuel, as she deals with the trial of barrenness. Eventually her husband Elkanah decides to take a second wife so that he can raise posterity. Hannah continues her pleas to the Lord, until one day, while praying at the temple in Shiloh, she is approached by the high priest, Eli. When he inquires what she is so grieved over, Hannah tells him of her desire to have children, and he blesses her to conceive. Since Hannah has vowed to raise her son Samuel as a Nazarite and deliver him to the temple to serve there, her life is then shaped by this commitment and trial of faith.
Alternating viewpoints make up the story, including Hannah, Samuel, and a woman named Abigail. Hannah’s journey of learning to turn her will over to the Lord in all things, and put her complete trust in Him when faced with unsurmountable trials, became an important example to me as I navigate through my own trials in life.
June 10, 2022
I adore this author's Biblical/christian fiction. She has a way of making these familiar Bible stories come alive and it helps me learn more about the people they're about. The way she writes helps me see Hannah, Elkanah and Samuel as living breathing people and not just characters in a story.
Hannah waited so long, and went through much torment from her husband's second wife, Peninnah, before she was able to conceive and have children. Her faith in the Lord was so great she promised Him her son Samuel would be raised as a Nazirite from birth and would serve Him always, bringing him to the temple to be trained when he was just a child.
I loved seeing Hannah and Elkanah's family--their interactions with each other and their trips to Shiloh to visit the temple. I'd never considered the preparations that went into such trips or how arduous a journey it would be. I loved the way Elkanah loved Hannah--he truly loved her whether or not she bore him children. Not all men were like that at that time. I loved seeing both sides of Samuel--his teasing with his younger siblings when he visited his family and how much he cared for the Lord's temple and the sacrifices that the people offered there.
I loved the dual timeline and multiple points of view. I was heartbroken for Hannah at the treatment she received when she had no children and was amazed at her faithfulness and trust in the Lord. Could I have been that faithful and trusting? I highly recommend this book for all those who enjoy Biblical retellings and Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Hannah waited so long, and went through much torment from her husband's second wife, Peninnah, before she was able to conceive and have children. Her faith in the Lord was so great she promised Him her son Samuel would be raised as a Nazirite from birth and would serve Him always, bringing him to the temple to be trained when he was just a child.
I loved seeing Hannah and Elkanah's family--their interactions with each other and their trips to Shiloh to visit the temple. I'd never considered the preparations that went into such trips or how arduous a journey it would be. I loved the way Elkanah loved Hannah--he truly loved her whether or not she bore him children. Not all men were like that at that time. I loved seeing both sides of Samuel--his teasing with his younger siblings when he visited his family and how much he cared for the Lord's temple and the sacrifices that the people offered there.
I loved the dual timeline and multiple points of view. I was heartbroken for Hannah at the treatment she received when she had no children and was amazed at her faithfulness and trust in the Lord. Could I have been that faithful and trusting? I highly recommend this book for all those who enjoy Biblical retellings and Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 20, 2022
HB Moore’s historical novels are wonderfully well written, and HANNAH is a wonderful addition. I loved this book. The way the story flows, it doesn’t feel like just another Bible story. The author does an amazing job of character development, with some added excitement of battles and family life. I loved the different POVs throughout but the ending was perfect with Hannah as the focus:
She cherished each memory, each family memory, and more importantly, she was grateful for a God who had always remembered her name.
There were many beautiful, tender moments in this book.
She cherished each memory, each family memory, and more importantly, she was grateful for a God who had always remembered her name.
There were many beautiful, tender moments in this book.
June 5, 2022
“You are enough for me, dear Hannah. You are my companion. Children will grow and leave, but I hope to always have you by my side. Always.”
Loved this beautiful retelling of one of my favorite stories in the Bible! Heather B. Moore weaves a compelling story which expertly brings the history and people of Biblical times to life. The story of Hannah and Samuel is particularly dear to my heart and I loved the unique and sensitive way the author approached it. The tender emotions and struggles, sweet romance, hopeful messages, and the anticipation of battle really drew me in and I quickly found myself absorbed in the story.
It begins in 1041 BC in the Village of Ramah just before the Philistines’ attack, and capture of the Ark of the Covenant. Hannah is an older woman and Samuel is 30 years old, serving as a priest in the temple. Samuel’s miraculous birth is briefly touched on as Hannah shares her beautifully heartrending story with her daughter Noa and Noa’s friend Abigail. Abigail is a sweet, thoughtful young woman whose father has succumb to idol worship and recently abandoned her and her mother. When Noa’s family offers to let her journey to Shiloh with them to visit the temple and Samuel, she readily accepts.
Samuel is in a constant fight to protect the people and sanctity of the temple from Eli’s wicked sons. It’s a losing battle, one he foresaw as a young boy. When a young woman runs into him escaping from these evil priests, he is immediately intrigued, especially when he learns she’s Noa’s friend Abigail who came to visit with his family. As their friendship flourishes, he thinks he’s found the woman who could capture his heart. But, is she willing to leave her mother to live in Shiloh and can he protect her from Eli’s sons?
I loved the way the author portrayed Samuel! He definitely makes prophets look like hunky heroes! His desire to do good and be righteous shines through in such an attractive way. I enjoyed his subtle, sweet romance with Abigail. Loved Abigail’s caring nature and her willingness to sacrifice her own happiness for others.
I enjoyed the author’s inspired interpretation of Hannah’s and Elkanah’s relationship. I’d like to imagine that they were as loving and devoted to one another as this story implies. The other side characters brought added depth and feeling as well as some lighter moments. Samuel’s banter with his siblings was particularly fun.
This is definitely one story fans of religious fiction and Biblical retellings should not miss. Themes of forgiveness, redemption, and God’s infinite love are expertly woven into the story along with romance and humor. One of my favorite retellings! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Loved this beautiful retelling of one of my favorite stories in the Bible! Heather B. Moore weaves a compelling story which expertly brings the history and people of Biblical times to life. The story of Hannah and Samuel is particularly dear to my heart and I loved the unique and sensitive way the author approached it. The tender emotions and struggles, sweet romance, hopeful messages, and the anticipation of battle really drew me in and I quickly found myself absorbed in the story.
It begins in 1041 BC in the Village of Ramah just before the Philistines’ attack, and capture of the Ark of the Covenant. Hannah is an older woman and Samuel is 30 years old, serving as a priest in the temple. Samuel’s miraculous birth is briefly touched on as Hannah shares her beautifully heartrending story with her daughter Noa and Noa’s friend Abigail. Abigail is a sweet, thoughtful young woman whose father has succumb to idol worship and recently abandoned her and her mother. When Noa’s family offers to let her journey to Shiloh with them to visit the temple and Samuel, she readily accepts.
Samuel is in a constant fight to protect the people and sanctity of the temple from Eli’s wicked sons. It’s a losing battle, one he foresaw as a young boy. When a young woman runs into him escaping from these evil priests, he is immediately intrigued, especially when he learns she’s Noa’s friend Abigail who came to visit with his family. As their friendship flourishes, he thinks he’s found the woman who could capture his heart. But, is she willing to leave her mother to live in Shiloh and can he protect her from Eli’s sons?
I loved the way the author portrayed Samuel! He definitely makes prophets look like hunky heroes! His desire to do good and be righteous shines through in such an attractive way. I enjoyed his subtle, sweet romance with Abigail. Loved Abigail’s caring nature and her willingness to sacrifice her own happiness for others.
I enjoyed the author’s inspired interpretation of Hannah’s and Elkanah’s relationship. I’d like to imagine that they were as loving and devoted to one another as this story implies. The other side characters brought added depth and feeling as well as some lighter moments. Samuel’s banter with his siblings was particularly fun.
This is definitely one story fans of religious fiction and Biblical retellings should not miss. Themes of forgiveness, redemption, and God’s infinite love are expertly woven into the story along with romance and humor. One of my favorite retellings! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
June 28, 2022
I remember the first time I read one of H.B. Moore's biblical fiction novels. I was swept away in the beauty of the story and it was the same with this story of Hannah. Christians are familiar with the stories found in the Bible. Seeing the stories brought to life and expanded makes for wonderful reading. It allows the reader to "get to know" the people behind the basic stories. This is what I love about H.B. Moore's fantastic storytelling and the emotions brought out while reading.
The novel starts with Hannah as she's experiencing so much heartbreak from not being able to bear her husband a child. I also went through this heartache and could feel deep in my heart how Hannah felt and her deep desire for a son. Through her faithfulness and giving her burdens over to the Father, her prayers were answered and she was blessed with a child. Soon after Samuel's birth, the story shifts to several years later. We see Samuel as a devoted priest in the Holy Temple. We also see Hannah now as a mother of six and grandmother to many. I loved how her husband Elkanah still showed such love to her through the years of infertility and past that time.
I also loved how the story showed how devoted Samuel was to the Lord and how he took his responsibilities in the temple seriously. The war between the Israelites and Philistines is talked about but not shown in-depth, so nothing graphic. This part did showcase how Samuel became a leader of his people and eventually the High Priest in the temple. The novel also told of a love story between Samuel and a village girl named Abigail. This was a sweet part of the story and I loved the author's interpretation of what could have happened.
I hope readers will find the beauty and joy that can be found in this novel of sorrow, longing, family love, forgiveness, and devotion to God. I know that any Christian who loves Bible stories will enjoy reading the story of Hannah and her son, Samuel the Prophet.
The novel starts with Hannah as she's experiencing so much heartbreak from not being able to bear her husband a child. I also went through this heartache and could feel deep in my heart how Hannah felt and her deep desire for a son. Through her faithfulness and giving her burdens over to the Father, her prayers were answered and she was blessed with a child. Soon after Samuel's birth, the story shifts to several years later. We see Samuel as a devoted priest in the Holy Temple. We also see Hannah now as a mother of six and grandmother to many. I loved how her husband Elkanah still showed such love to her through the years of infertility and past that time.
I also loved how the story showed how devoted Samuel was to the Lord and how he took his responsibilities in the temple seriously. The war between the Israelites and Philistines is talked about but not shown in-depth, so nothing graphic. This part did showcase how Samuel became a leader of his people and eventually the High Priest in the temple. The novel also told of a love story between Samuel and a village girl named Abigail. This was a sweet part of the story and I loved the author's interpretation of what could have happened.
I hope readers will find the beauty and joy that can be found in this novel of sorrow, longing, family love, forgiveness, and devotion to God. I know that any Christian who loves Bible stories will enjoy reading the story of Hannah and her son, Samuel the Prophet.
May 18, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Covenant Communications for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Publication: June 6, 2022
Genre: Historical Fiction/Religion
Number of Pages: 224 pages
I’ve always loved the story of Samuel in my biblical studies. “Hanna: Mother of a Prophet” by H.B. Moore is an enjoyable retelling of Hannah’s trials in the scriptures. What helped this book flow for me was the gradual pacing of the story and the characters involved that brought the story of Hannah as close to life as in the Bible. Hannah was a strong woman of God, who was patient and persevered the cruel boasts by her husband’s second wife Peninnah. This was such a beautiful and emotional love story…Hannah’s love for God, husband, family, and most of all for her son, Samuel who she loved so much she sacrificed him to a loving God who gave him to her out of the love of her sincere prayers. This is a Christian-based fictional novel that is clean and shows the devotion of a women towards the Lord.
Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Publication: June 6, 2022
Genre: Historical Fiction/Religion
Number of Pages: 224 pages
I’ve always loved the story of Samuel in my biblical studies. “Hanna: Mother of a Prophet” by H.B. Moore is an enjoyable retelling of Hannah’s trials in the scriptures. What helped this book flow for me was the gradual pacing of the story and the characters involved that brought the story of Hannah as close to life as in the Bible. Hannah was a strong woman of God, who was patient and persevered the cruel boasts by her husband’s second wife Peninnah. This was such a beautiful and emotional love story…Hannah’s love for God, husband, family, and most of all for her son, Samuel who she loved so much she sacrificed him to a loving God who gave him to her out of the love of her sincere prayers. This is a Christian-based fictional novel that is clean and shows the devotion of a women towards the Lord.
June 5, 2022
Such a beautiful, tender, and inspirational story! A must-read for any fan of Christian fiction.
I was immersed in Hannah and Samuel's stories from the first chapter. I appreciated that the author stays true to the Biblical details but then weaves them together with a fictional account that really brings the Biblical characters to life!
I immensely enjoyed the dual timeline and multiple points of view. Hannah's faith is humbling as is Samuel's obedience to the Lord. The romance storyline between Samuel and Abigail was so sweet as was the relationship between Hannah and Elkanah. The beautiful messages about trusting in the Lord left me in tears. I feel like I understand the why behind the story so much more now as opposed to just the who and the what.
A delightful 5-star read that I look forward to reading again and again.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
I was immersed in Hannah and Samuel's stories from the first chapter. I appreciated that the author stays true to the Biblical details but then weaves them together with a fictional account that really brings the Biblical characters to life!
I immensely enjoyed the dual timeline and multiple points of view. Hannah's faith is humbling as is Samuel's obedience to the Lord. The romance storyline between Samuel and Abigail was so sweet as was the relationship between Hannah and Elkanah. The beautiful messages about trusting in the Lord left me in tears. I feel like I understand the why behind the story so much more now as opposed to just the who and the what.
A delightful 5-star read that I look forward to reading again and again.
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
May 11, 2022
This story tugged at my heart. It was so beautiful. It was emotional. I loved the way this author was able to portray Hannah and her sorrow in being barren. Her emotions and humility in her situation in life. I loved how Hannah and her husband, Elkanah's relationship was portrayed. It was such a sweet and beautiful love between them. Of course this is a fictional portrayal of real historical people and what record we have of them doesn't show all the details, but I love to believe that how they are portrayed in this book is fairly close to who they were.
I can't begin to understand the emotions of being unable to conceive and to be taunted about it by your husband's second wife. Remember this is based on the culture and rules of the time, so it was perfectly normal if a wife was barren that the husband divorce her or take a second wife so that he could produce an heir to whom all of his possessions and responsibilities would pass to. Not just the possessions but the leadership of the family, the care of them. It is so interesting to study the concept of a kinsman and the many layers and importance of that role. The fact that Elkanah loved Hannah and didn't divorce her, but cared for her, continued to love and provide for her shows his goodness as well. And his devotion to God in traveling and worshipping at the Tabernacle is another depiction of his character and goodness.
I had tears reading this. Through the struggles and sorrows, Hannah held fast to her faith and hope. Her devotion and humility and continuing forward was inspiring. She wasn't without her days of immense sorrow and struggles, I'm sure, but the hope she must have had and held onto, was beautiful.
The book starts out with Hannah being older and sharing her story of praying and going to the Tabernacle to covenant with God. Again it was just beautiful and heart-wrenching. Then it goes back to the time the books starts and their family going to visit Samuel as a Priest in the Tabernacle. We get to read about some of the events that happened around that time as well as some of Samuel's story. I loved what the author included in the book and how it all came together.
Content: Clean. This book is based on people from the Bible and is a Christian fiction novel. It is not preachy but shows these people living their lives in accordance to following the Lord and their love and devotion to Him. Yes it deals with the subject of barrenness and those many emotions, but was so beautifully written I think those who are as Hannah, might find comfort and peace in her story. But it might be a major trigger for others.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I can't begin to understand the emotions of being unable to conceive and to be taunted about it by your husband's second wife. Remember this is based on the culture and rules of the time, so it was perfectly normal if a wife was barren that the husband divorce her or take a second wife so that he could produce an heir to whom all of his possessions and responsibilities would pass to. Not just the possessions but the leadership of the family, the care of them. It is so interesting to study the concept of a kinsman and the many layers and importance of that role. The fact that Elkanah loved Hannah and didn't divorce her, but cared for her, continued to love and provide for her shows his goodness as well. And his devotion to God in traveling and worshipping at the Tabernacle is another depiction of his character and goodness.
I had tears reading this. Through the struggles and sorrows, Hannah held fast to her faith and hope. Her devotion and humility and continuing forward was inspiring. She wasn't without her days of immense sorrow and struggles, I'm sure, but the hope she must have had and held onto, was beautiful.
The book starts out with Hannah being older and sharing her story of praying and going to the Tabernacle to covenant with God. Again it was just beautiful and heart-wrenching. Then it goes back to the time the books starts and their family going to visit Samuel as a Priest in the Tabernacle. We get to read about some of the events that happened around that time as well as some of Samuel's story. I loved what the author included in the book and how it all came together.
Content: Clean. This book is based on people from the Bible and is a Christian fiction novel. It is not preachy but shows these people living their lives in accordance to following the Lord and their love and devotion to Him. Yes it deals with the subject of barrenness and those many emotions, but was so beautifully written I think those who are as Hannah, might find comfort and peace in her story. But it might be a major trigger for others.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
June 7, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect beyond the Bible story we know. Hannah prayed for a child and promised that child to the Lord. Simple, right?
This story encompasses what happened after that decision and after Samuel was given to be a priest. The details of the time period have given me a richer understanding of what the Israelites faced at that time. I was transported to their time and traditions.
I saw the interactions between Hannah and Elkenah and their righteousness and their righteous desires for their son. I realize as history, many of the details are lost, but I trust this author to research well and give me the feeling of the story even if some of the truths and details are lost to time.
I can only imagine what it was like for Hannah to give her firstborn to the Lord and the temple when she didn't live in the same city. My youngest is 9 so the mother's feelings are real regarding the time he was sent to live and serve in the Temple.
Also, in this book is the story of a family, a story of love, and a story of a people. I love these Biblical fiction stories as they add depth to my understanding by bringing the stories to life.
I received an early copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
This story encompasses what happened after that decision and after Samuel was given to be a priest. The details of the time period have given me a richer understanding of what the Israelites faced at that time. I was transported to their time and traditions.
I saw the interactions between Hannah and Elkenah and their righteousness and their righteous desires for their son. I realize as history, many of the details are lost, but I trust this author to research well and give me the feeling of the story even if some of the truths and details are lost to time.
I can only imagine what it was like for Hannah to give her firstborn to the Lord and the temple when she didn't live in the same city. My youngest is 9 so the mother's feelings are real regarding the time he was sent to live and serve in the Temple.
Also, in this book is the story of a family, a story of love, and a story of a people. I love these Biblical fiction stories as they add depth to my understanding by bringing the stories to life.
I received an early copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
May 18, 2022
Moore does a lovely job of bringing a biblical story to life. The title character is Hannah and the story begins while she is trying to deal with not being able to have children. I’m glad the focus didn’t stay there for too long as infertility can be triggering for many people. Instead it moves on to the blessing in her life of her son Samuel. Because of the title of the book I was surprised that almost 70 percent is focused on Samuel. I love learning about the festivals that bring his family to the temple where he serves as a Priest. Also the ritual of repentance and how that works with offerings in the temple is discussed. And the love interest is sweet and plays out nicely. I like that when I read fictional stories based on the Bible that I can go to the source and see what the author adds to tell a full story. I’ve read other scriptural retellings by the author and I know she is one I can trust to be interesting, have good side characters and good pacing. If you enjoy religious fiction this is one I can recommend. Thank you to NetGalley, Covenant Communications and the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2022
Heather has such a wonderful way of telling biblical stories and allowing those people to become someone real and relatable that jump right off the page. I was completely immersed in Hannah's story and loved that not only did we get Hannah's point of view, but we were also able to get Samuel's in a dual time line AND multiple point of view retelling. The pacing and side characters really helped this book evolve into a work of art. I've read almost all of her scriptural retellings and this one just might be my favorite!
If you are at all interested anything Christian reading I highly recommend this one for you!
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
If you are at all interested anything Christian reading I highly recommend this one for you!
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
April 27, 2022
I finished the novel “Hannah: Mother of a Prophet,” by H.B. Moore. I’ve seen her books pop up on Amazon here and there. Netgalley was kind enough to except my request for this title. It was my first time reading from H.B. Moore she writes biblical women fiction and under her name Heather B. Moore she writes regular historical fiction. If you’re a fan of historical fiction and historical biblical fiction I say it’s worth checking out even if it’s not your favorite. The biggest flaw was it seemed to focus on some of the secondary characters more than it did on Hannah herself. Read my full review on booknotions.com
April 25, 2022
“Hannah” by Heather Moore was an excellent book. It is a historical fiction based on accounts from the Bible. I have always loved the story of Hannah and Samuel. I’ve always been in awe of her and being able to give her son up at such a young age. (I didn’t want to give up my son in his 20’s). It made me think about all of the sacrifices she made to have this child. This book made these people really come to life. I’m looking forward to Heather’s next book, “In the Shadow of a Queen.”
April 26, 2022
H.B. Moore does it again! I always enjoy her historical fiction, especially mixed with scriptural text. She captures these people who lived whilst still intermingling them with the story she wants to tell.
Brilliant!
Brilliant!
May 8, 2022
Oh I just loves this book! I really needed to remember the story of Hannah and her prophet son Samuel! What a beautiful storyline and Ms Moore just brought it to life just like she always does! She is a master at telling Bible stories in a way that helps me understand! Thank you!!!
July 18, 2022
H.B. Moore is a masterful storyteller. Once again, she brings the scriptures to life. Beautiful!
August 9, 2022
Great Book!
Another great story. I'm loving this series and I always love Heather's take on the women of the Bible. I eagerly look forward to her next story.
Another great story. I'm loving this series and I always love Heather's take on the women of the Bible. I eagerly look forward to her next story.
June 24, 2022
Hannah by Heather B. Moore is a beautifully written and inspiring story for those that love the stories of the bible. Even if readers know their bible stories, Moore is an excellent storyteller and has a knack for bringing the stories off the pages and to life in a way that not many authors can. This story not only focuses on the story of Hannah, but also entwines in the story of her son Samuel in a good portion of the novel as well. Although it does tend to focus on Hannah and then switch more to Samuel and then back to Hannah, the change is smooth and readers will enjoy it. Hannah is a story that will touch the heart of readers long after the turn of the last page.
Genre: biblical fiction, women’s fiction
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: June 6, 2022
Number of pages: 256
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: biblical fiction, women’s fiction
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: June 6, 2022
Number of pages: 256
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
June 20, 2022
I love the works of H. B. Moore, especially when she brings the people of the scriptures to life for me. In this particular book Moore helped me better understand the struggle Hannah had in trying to bare a child and the vow she made with the Lord. But I loved seeing how it wasn’t the end when she delivered her son Samuel to the temple. They still got to be a part of each other’s lives. Though there are fictional parts to the book, I always look forward to reading the story from the Bible to see how it had helped me better understand the scriptures.
If you love the scriptures or you are like me who struggles to understand what they are reading in the scriptures, then I highly recommend H. B. Moore’s books. I especially loved this book and seeing the story unfold through multiple eyes and how it has helped me better understand those who are going and who had gone through infertility. I can’t help knowing that this story could bring a lot of hope and peace to them.
If you love the scriptures or you are like me who struggles to understand what they are reading in the scriptures, then I highly recommend H. B. Moore’s books. I especially loved this book and seeing the story unfold through multiple eyes and how it has helped me better understand those who are going and who had gone through infertility. I can’t help knowing that this story could bring a lot of hope and peace to them.
June 6, 2022
It's one thing to read a story in the scriptures, but even more powerful to read it in a novel form. I've heard Hannah and Samuel's story many times and always wondered how she could do what she did. Especially when I struggled with infertility myself. I was finally blessed with one daughter and cannot imagine the sacrifice to raise her for 8 years and then give her to the temple. It's unimaginable. I really enjoyed getting to know Hannah and Samuel better through this story. I know it's fiction, but it helped me to understand better these scripture stories and the magnitude of them. I love that this series brings these stories to life in new ways. I'll never read their stories in the same way again and I'm grateful.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
May 18, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! I was immediately pulled into the story, with the rich details about the people's lives, from the day-to-day details to the journey to the temple to Samuel's life as a priest at the temple. I really enjoyed reading Hannah's story, and although I wasn't expecting to read so much of Samuel's story, I was thrilled that it was included. I loved reading about him and Abigail. It was really neat to seeboth Hannah and Elkanah's established relationship and Samuel and Abigail's developing one. Both romances was so sweet. This was just a delightful book to read.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2022
Beautiful, inspiring rendition of the story of Hannah, Mother of Samuel the Prophet, from the Old Testament. This read like poetry to my soul, wonderfully written, it brought the story to life. Set between 1010 - 1041 BC, and yet has so many messages that pertain todays living. The faith that Hannah had is something I can only aspire too. The trials and tribulations they had to go through, can be related to the hardships we face today. H. B. Moore is a talented writer of so many genres. Here she takes this ancient historical scripture and makes a masterpiece Christian novel for us to grow our own faith and peace.
April 11, 2022
#HannahMotherofaProphet #NetGalley
A Biblical retelling of Hannah, mother of the prophet Samuel. Hannah, longs for a child and watches as her husband's second wife has four children. Hannah is treated as no more than a servant. Hannah petitions the Lord, if the Lord, will give her a son, she will give him back to the Lord, as a servant in the temple. What courage Hannah shows after having longed for a child. There are other characters who play a part in this novel about Hannah, and how she shaped other's lives.
A Biblical retelling of Hannah, mother of the prophet Samuel. Hannah, longs for a child and watches as her husband's second wife has four children. Hannah is treated as no more than a servant. Hannah petitions the Lord, if the Lord, will give her a son, she will give him back to the Lord, as a servant in the temple. What courage Hannah shows after having longed for a child. There are other characters who play a part in this novel about Hannah, and how she shaped other's lives.
May 25, 2022
This tells the story of Hannah and her son Samuel, as well as other members of their family. The story tells of before Samuel was born and Samuel again as an adult. I really felt the emotions right alongside Hannah as she struggled with her own self-worth and guilt over not being able to bear a child. It was also neat to see some of the story from Samuel's perspective. A good Biblical fiction book that makes you want to go back and read your Bible.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 16, 2022
Moore is SO good at transporting her readers to a specific time in history, and this book is no different. This book brought biblical Israel to life with all the historical and cultural details. I loved learning more about the traditions of the time.
Hannah: Mother of a Prophet is a beautiful retelling of the story of Hannah, who prayed and waited so long for a child. Her story touched my heart on such a personal level. I also admired the relationship she had with her husband. According to tradition at the time, he could have easily abandoned her when she failed to have a child. But his loyalty to her was beautiful! Hannah's faith and experience serve as such a source of strength for her whole family, and it was so rewarding to see her grow to an old age and enjoy her children and grandchildren!
The other part of the book focuses on her son, Samuel, and his time serving at the temple. I loved his faith and strength amidst the corruption around him. I loved watching his interactions with his family - I'm not as familiar with the Old Testament as I should be, but I always assumed that they just dropped him off at the temple. In this book. their family's loving interactions made my mom heart relieved. It would still be so hard to send a young child to live somewhere else for the rest of his life!
I loved this book, but some parts felt rushed. I would have loved more details about the battle, considering it had such a major impact at the time. I also would have loved more details about the characters.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Historical Fiction, specifically Religious Fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley, Covenant Communications, and H.B. Moore for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions!
Hannah: Mother of a Prophet is a beautiful retelling of the story of Hannah, who prayed and waited so long for a child. Her story touched my heart on such a personal level. I also admired the relationship she had with her husband. According to tradition at the time, he could have easily abandoned her when she failed to have a child. But his loyalty to her was beautiful! Hannah's faith and experience serve as such a source of strength for her whole family, and it was so rewarding to see her grow to an old age and enjoy her children and grandchildren!
The other part of the book focuses on her son, Samuel, and his time serving at the temple. I loved his faith and strength amidst the corruption around him. I loved watching his interactions with his family - I'm not as familiar with the Old Testament as I should be, but I always assumed that they just dropped him off at the temple. In this book. their family's loving interactions made my mom heart relieved. It would still be so hard to send a young child to live somewhere else for the rest of his life!
I loved this book, but some parts felt rushed. I would have loved more details about the battle, considering it had such a major impact at the time. I also would have loved more details about the characters.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Historical Fiction, specifically Religious Fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley, Covenant Communications, and H.B. Moore for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions!
July 8, 2022
I loved this inspirational, Christian fiction, from H.B.Moore. It was interesting and woven together nicely. I loved the story of Elkanah, Paninah (Elkanah’s “1st wife”), and Hannah (Elkanah’s “2nd wife”). Paninah could conceive and did conceive children for Elkanah, but Hannah could not. She was barren or infertile. This made it very hard on Hannah and she was treated roughly by Peninah. It caused Hannah to make a vow to God and promise Him if He would let her conceive or if He would give her and Elkanah a child, she would dedicate the child back to Him. And the Lord answered her prayer. This is biblical that Hannah couldn’t conceive and that God answered her prayers and gave her a son. Also, that when he became of age, she took him to the temple to be brought up in the Lord and taught His ways. What isn’t biblical is the relationship between Samuel and Abigail after Samuel became a grown man. So I’m believing this is the fiction part of the story. I have looked and looked but can not find that an Abigail was Samuel’s wife, though Samuel did have a wife and two children. So you will have to read and see how you view this. I love the relationship of Samuel and Abigail. It was well written. The whole story of Hannah, Elkanah, Samuel and Abigail was really good. I enjoyed the book very much, but not being able to biblically read and verify the relationship and marriage of Samuel and Abigail threw me off a little bit. But it is Christian Fiction, so that maybe why. 😣 But I always like an author to stay biblically correct with the main characters. But it was really good and interesting. …..Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review #HannahMotherOfAProphet with my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 9, 2022
The culture and traditions of Old Testament stories can be hard to comprehend. Hannah: Mother of a Prophet, takes us on Hannah's personal journey. As I read this remarkable story, I found myself feeling emotional about how Hannah was treated by Peninnah and how hard it must've been on Hannah to tolerate all the comments Peninnah made about her not being able to conceive. Hannah also has to deal with in-laws trying to get Elkanah to divorce her because she had not given him any sons. The courage Hannah had to have when she took Samuel to the Temple to serve the Lord at the age of eight, I know she was keeping her word, but I can't imagine how hard that must've been on Hannah after waiting so long for a child! This touching, sweet, love story between Hannah and Elkanah and the trust Hannah has in the Lord will tug at your heart! Hannah never loses faith. H.B.Moore adds characters to enhance the story. Beautifully written! I was given an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2022
Hannah is a wonderful Biblical, historical fiction story. H. B. Moore has done her research and kept true to the Word, while infusing her own creativity to the tale of Hannah and Samuel. I love how the story starts when Hannah is older and then flashes back, telling the story from Hannah’s own perspective. Moore captures the dynamics and emotions that a woman in that situation may have been feeling while maintaining her hope in the Lord. Eventually, the story catches up to the present time when Samuel is serving in the temple as a priest and the sins of the nation are dealt with by God. I love the family dynamics of all the characters and the hope of a future through the power of redemption. A truly well told version of Hannah (and Samuel). I highly recommend for all lovers of Biblical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
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