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Daughter of Eden: Eve's Story
The first time she opens her eyes, Eve gazes on One whose beauty nearly blinds her, whose breath is in her lungs. Her Creator takes her hand and gives her to one like her and yet different. Together, she and Adam experience pure joy as they explore Eden. But her favorite moments are when the Creator comes to walk with them, day after day.
Until everything changes. With one act of disobedience, Eve finds that her world is no longer a friendly place. With remorse in her heart, she must face the unknown future--the births, the deaths, the sacrifices, the loss of the one home she has ever known. Perhaps worst of all is the loss of trust, not only with her Creator but with the man who shares her life. How will they ever survive out of Eden?
Bestselling biblical fiction author Jill Eileen Smith imagines the life of the first woman to ever live, unspooling a story of love, loss, and the promise of redemption.
Until everything changes. With one act of disobedience, Eve finds that her world is no longer a friendly place. With remorse in her heart, she must face the unknown future--the births, the deaths, the sacrifices, the loss of the one home she has ever known. Perhaps worst of all is the loss of trust, not only with her Creator but with the man who shares her life. How will they ever survive out of Eden?
Bestselling biblical fiction author Jill Eileen Smith imagines the life of the first woman to ever live, unspooling a story of love, loss, and the promise of redemption.
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2023
104 people are currently reading
4667 people want to read
About the author
Jill Eileen Smith
30 books1,502 followersJill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam's Song, The Prince and the Prodigal, Daughter of Eden, and The Ark and the Dove. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Bible times.
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
February 15, 2026
Why I chose to read this book:
1. my sister gifted me a hardcopy, promising me that I would like it better than Jill Eileen Smith's other book I've read titled The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife;
2. I enjoy reading good Biblical fiction; and,
3. February 2026 is my "C and D Titles" Month!
Praises:
1. this is Eve's story, and what life may have been like for her and Adam, especially after their banishment from the Garden of Eden;
2. I got a true sense of their fluctuating feelings and emotions, especially Eve's overwhelming guilt and Adam's anger, as well as their forgiveness towards each other and within themselves;
3. I now have a clearer picture of who the Nephilim and the Watchers were and how they came to be, unlike in the book The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife where the mention of them confused me;
4. also unlike The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife, Eve's POV is prolific throughout the story, with a few chapters focusing on other characters which were needed to carry the story along; and,
5. my connection to Eve must've been strong, because the ending literally made me cry!
Niggles:
I had the same issues like I did with The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife. For example:
- the lack of vivid details with the settings and characterization. Lucifer and his demons don't feel truly evil. Instead, they came across like sulky children;
- lacking in research for the "little things". I was flummoxed when Eve told some children to only eat berries with seeds because they're not poisonous! Like ... what??? Last time I checked, ALL berries in nature contain seeds, poisonous or not! Also, calling a cone-shaped object a cylinder confused me. Even my Grade 3 students know the difference between these 3D solids!
Overall Thoughts:
My sister was right! I did enjoy it more!
Although Smith referred to the Bible's Book of Genesis to write this book, it's obvious (and totally understandable) that she needed to take a LOT of creative license to tell Eve's story. Smith uses an uncomplicated writing style with a strong focus on free will among the characters. Still that ending broke me, giving me more hope for us all!
3 ⭐⭐⭐ = a good read.
1. my sister gifted me a hardcopy, promising me that I would like it better than Jill Eileen Smith's other book I've read titled The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife;
2. I enjoy reading good Biblical fiction; and,
3. February 2026 is my "C and D Titles" Month!
Praises:
1. this is Eve's story, and what life may have been like for her and Adam, especially after their banishment from the Garden of Eden;
2. I got a true sense of their fluctuating feelings and emotions, especially Eve's overwhelming guilt and Adam's anger, as well as their forgiveness towards each other and within themselves;
3. I now have a clearer picture of who the Nephilim and the Watchers were and how they came to be, unlike in the book The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife where the mention of them confused me;
4. also unlike The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife, Eve's POV is prolific throughout the story, with a few chapters focusing on other characters which were needed to carry the story along; and,
5. my connection to Eve must've been strong, because the ending literally made me cry!
Niggles:
I had the same issues like I did with The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah's Wife. For example:
- the lack of vivid details with the settings and characterization. Lucifer and his demons don't feel truly evil. Instead, they came across like sulky children;
- lacking in research for the "little things". I was flummoxed when Eve told some children to only eat berries with seeds because they're not poisonous! Like ... what??? Last time I checked, ALL berries in nature contain seeds, poisonous or not! Also, calling a cone-shaped object a cylinder confused me. Even my Grade 3 students know the difference between these 3D solids!
Overall Thoughts:
My sister was right! I did enjoy it more!
Although Smith referred to the Bible's Book of Genesis to write this book, it's obvious (and totally understandable) that she needed to take a LOT of creative license to tell Eve's story. Smith uses an uncomplicated writing style with a strong focus on free will among the characters. Still that ending broke me, giving me more hope for us all!
3 ⭐⭐⭐ = a good read.
December 23, 2023
Wow. This was a huge undertaking for this author.
It's pretty straightforward. We follow the creation of Eden and Adam and Eve. Starting in the perspective of the angel Michael. Fascinating.
As Adam is created, we see a glimpse of this author's take on the garden. Then comes Eve and we stay in her perspective most of the time. The time in the garden was very interesting to me.
We also get a bit of Lucifer's perspective. That was unsettling in a good way.
Overall though, it fell flat. It felt like all of a sudden Eve and Adam ate the fruit and were out of Eden fending for themselves in a couple of pages. Most of the book is watching Eve have children and watching those children have children. Then Cain and Abel happen. That felt quick too. It just went on and on and I did not find it engaging.
Sweet ending I guess, but it just felt like a story we didn't necessarily need. It wasn't bad; it just didn't wow me.
It's pretty straightforward. We follow the creation of Eden and Adam and Eve. Starting in the perspective of the angel Michael. Fascinating.
As Adam is created, we see a glimpse of this author's take on the garden. Then comes Eve and we stay in her perspective most of the time. The time in the garden was very interesting to me.
We also get a bit of Lucifer's perspective. That was unsettling in a good way.
Overall though, it fell flat. It felt like all of a sudden Eve and Adam ate the fruit and were out of Eden fending for themselves in a couple of pages. Most of the book is watching Eve have children and watching those children have children. Then Cain and Abel happen. That felt quick too. It just went on and on and I did not find it engaging.
Sweet ending I guess, but it just felt like a story we didn't necessarily need. It wasn't bad; it just didn't wow me.
February 20, 2023
Daughter of Eden: Eve’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith shows us what it could have possibly been like during the time of Adam and Eve, all surrounding the time during the book of Genesis in the Bible. This was my first book by her and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this story.
It is a biblical fiction featuring real bible “characters”, primarily Adam, Eve, their children (mostly Cain and Abel). We also have chapters from Lucifer and how he fell and became the devil – the deceptive, cunning serpent. It follows many year, encompassing most of Adam and Eve’s life.
4 stars
This book is a fictionalized work of what it could have been like during the time of Adam and Eve at the creation of the world. It was really interesting to see how they may have spoke to one another, dialogue together, with God and with their children. It was also interesting to see how they may have ate, figured out how to be “the first” parents of the world etc. I feel like the author did a great job creating a story for us, while interweaving God’s truths and scripture throughout the story.
Seeing how Eve may have reacted or handled her sin when she made the mistake of eating the fruit and being deceived by the serpent was probably the most interesting for me. I had some mixed feelings on some of how Adam and Eve would have interacted together, but overall enjoyed the story and portrayal. It was emotional to read the depiction of the fall of humanity – I feel like Jill did a wonderful job with that description.
The best part about this story is it made me go back to Genesis and read my bible to see God’s word and compare it to this fictionalized work. Very thought provoking as many other reviewers have stated. To see how Adam and Eve could have possibly grieved what Cain did to Abel was also very eye opening.
Overall, the author did a great job portraying what it could have been like during this time and many parts touched my heart and sprit. The ending was beautiful and made me a bit emotional as a woman because she so beautifully portrayed how we are not perfect, but God still loves us. Thank you to Baker Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy to honestly read and review.
It is a biblical fiction featuring real bible “characters”, primarily Adam, Eve, their children (mostly Cain and Abel). We also have chapters from Lucifer and how he fell and became the devil – the deceptive, cunning serpent. It follows many year, encompassing most of Adam and Eve’s life.
4 stars
This book is a fictionalized work of what it could have been like during the time of Adam and Eve at the creation of the world. It was really interesting to see how they may have spoke to one another, dialogue together, with God and with their children. It was also interesting to see how they may have ate, figured out how to be “the first” parents of the world etc. I feel like the author did a great job creating a story for us, while interweaving God’s truths and scripture throughout the story.
Seeing how Eve may have reacted or handled her sin when she made the mistake of eating the fruit and being deceived by the serpent was probably the most interesting for me. I had some mixed feelings on some of how Adam and Eve would have interacted together, but overall enjoyed the story and portrayal. It was emotional to read the depiction of the fall of humanity – I feel like Jill did a wonderful job with that description.
The best part about this story is it made me go back to Genesis and read my bible to see God’s word and compare it to this fictionalized work. Very thought provoking as many other reviewers have stated. To see how Adam and Eve could have possibly grieved what Cain did to Abel was also very eye opening.
Overall, the author did a great job portraying what it could have been like during this time and many parts touched my heart and sprit. The ending was beautiful and made me a bit emotional as a woman because she so beautifully portrayed how we are not perfect, but God still loves us. Thank you to Baker Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy to honestly read and review.
February 19, 2023
Jill Eileen Smith's newest release imagines life after Eden for Adam and Eve. The book of Genesis mentions three of Adam and Eve's children: Cain, Abel and Seth. But geneticists, by tracing the DNA patterns found in people throughout the world, have now identified lineages that may be descended from 10 sons of a genetic Adam and 18 daughters of Eve. Smith hypothesizes in her fiction novel of the lineages of these descendants, cities they may have started away from Adam and Eve and which of the children may have continued to follow God and which turned away to a different lifestyle. The Bible definitely shows us that Cain after the murder of Able was turned away from the family by God and becomes wrapped in the immorality of Lucifer.
Although they book started rather slowly, it becomes more and more interesting as it continues and captures your attention as you follow what might have happened to Adam and Eve as well as their descendants. It was interesting to follow Adam and Eve as they managed to figure out ways to meet their everyday needs since there was no one to show or teach them. Smith also shows how the increased immorality and distance from God by many of the descendants prepares the way for the future flood of the earth by God.
Well written Biblical fiction that provides an interesting perspective of what life might have been like for Adam and Eve after their fall and expulsion from the Garden of Eden.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Although they book started rather slowly, it becomes more and more interesting as it continues and captures your attention as you follow what might have happened to Adam and Eve as well as their descendants. It was interesting to follow Adam and Eve as they managed to figure out ways to meet their everyday needs since there was no one to show or teach them. Smith also shows how the increased immorality and distance from God by many of the descendants prepares the way for the future flood of the earth by God.
Well written Biblical fiction that provides an interesting perspective of what life might have been like for Adam and Eve after their fall and expulsion from the Garden of Eden.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
February 6, 2023
Jill Eileen Smith is one of my go-to authors for clean biblical fiction books. So when I found out she was writing a book about Eve, I knew I had to read it!
The book was pretty great, and it was neat to imagine what Eden might have been like. Imagine playing with tame lions and bears, swimming with fish and dolphins or riding bareback on the dinosaurs! A whole different and innocent world than we know today.
The message of redemption, and our deep need for God was woven smoothly and neatly throughout this story.
Content warning/triggers for victims of abuse:
It was pretty chilling at one point with the mysterious giants or Nephilim attacking and abusing the descendants of Adam. It wasn't detailed, but was mentioned a few times. Eve and Adam also encountered the creatures.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Baker Books, and Netgalley for this complimentary e-book. A positive review was not required of me, and the thoughts above are my own.
The book was pretty great, and it was neat to imagine what Eden might have been like. Imagine playing with tame lions and bears, swimming with fish and dolphins or riding bareback on the dinosaurs! A whole different and innocent world than we know today.
The message of redemption, and our deep need for God was woven smoothly and neatly throughout this story.
Content warning/triggers for victims of abuse:
It was pretty chilling at one point with the mysterious giants or Nephilim attacking and abusing the descendants of Adam. It wasn't detailed, but was mentioned a few times. Eve and Adam also encountered the creatures.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Baker Books, and Netgalley for this complimentary e-book. A positive review was not required of me, and the thoughts above are my own.
April 20, 2023
A very good book about Eve and her life with Adam. Made me want to read the Bible more.
June 15, 2024
☕ As Michael, the archangel, stood in God’s presence, he approached the Creator and bowed low. “Is this garden where You have placed the adams in the Eden You spoke of?”
“Yes,” He said. “It is the garden of God.”
📚 Wow.
I feel like I’ve just read a Mindbender. In a good way.
This was my second book by Jill Eileen Smith.
I jumped into my first biblical fiction with her when I accepted an advanced reader copy of her newest release, The Ark and the Dove a few months ago. I loved it so much that I sought out this title with my own monies.
I’ve always been keen to study what scripture tells us of heaven - even more so these days. I know God does not wish for us to know ALL, but it’s comforting to learn as much as possible, amen?
So when the prologue began in the “Unseen Realm,” with the archangel Michael first beginning to exist, I was alllllll in, y'all!
WOW!
Chapter One plunks us right along the water’s edge as Adam and Eve play under a waterfall and swim in the river. While the first few chapters were Adam & Eve talking about and working on being fruitful and multiplying (not with details, though!), ekkk, it is SO interesting how the author paints the scene of interactions with the serpent and their original sin.
Things I’d never thought about in length were brought up after A&E’s sin:
*How their relationship changed with God
*How their relationship changed with each other
*How their relationship changed with the animals
*What it was like to face childbirth as the first couple!
*Did the animals remember Eden?
*How A&E felt toward Cain after what he did.
*The grief of A&E after losing Abel.
*How the couple taught all those who came after them about God.
*How A&E felt about getting booted out of the garden.
*Did they ever want to sneak back in or just accept it?
Yes, I have a very active imagination, but more importantly (like the last book I read of Smith’s), this novel had me reaching for my Bible the entire time.
Yes, A&E’s story only spans a few chapters in the Bible and the author has written what “might” have happened in the cracks and crevices, it was SO wonderful to dream about heaven, the garden, and the earth with only A&E’s family.
We won’t talk about how comforting it was to grieve throughout the book with Adam and Eve about their son Abel’s death. And then the moment when Enoch (a descendant) gets to heaven and meets Abel. 😢😭
Oh, the tears. 😢😭
After loving the prologue, chapters 1 through 10 were not as exciting with all the logistics and marital strife between the couple.
But chapters 11 through 39, I couldn’t put down!
📚 CAUSE FOR PAUSE? No profanity, of course. There’s lots o’ romance and intimacy with Adam and Eve initially, although nothing is drawn out in detail. We aren’t “there."
There are scenes of childbirth, loss of people and animals, satan and friends roaming, virgins, family drama, etc.
Oh, and I'm not sure how detailed Cain's sin was against his brother, I skipped that page!!
📚 CONSIDER READING IF… like me, you want to know more about God, his love and forgiveness, the Old Testament, and an incredible true story told by a very talented author. 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟
There will be an in-depth review of this book (and other reviews & recs) in a June reading wrap up on my ‘Clean Reads’ YouTube channel. 💙
☕📚
“Yes,” He said. “It is the garden of God.”
📚 Wow.
I feel like I’ve just read a Mindbender. In a good way.
This was my second book by Jill Eileen Smith.
I jumped into my first biblical fiction with her when I accepted an advanced reader copy of her newest release, The Ark and the Dove a few months ago. I loved it so much that I sought out this title with my own monies.
I’ve always been keen to study what scripture tells us of heaven - even more so these days. I know God does not wish for us to know ALL, but it’s comforting to learn as much as possible, amen?
So when the prologue began in the “Unseen Realm,” with the archangel Michael first beginning to exist, I was alllllll in, y'all!
WOW!
Chapter One plunks us right along the water’s edge as Adam and Eve play under a waterfall and swim in the river. While the first few chapters were Adam & Eve talking about and working on being fruitful and multiplying (not with details, though!), ekkk, it is SO interesting how the author paints the scene of interactions with the serpent and their original sin.
Things I’d never thought about in length were brought up after A&E’s sin:
*How their relationship changed with God
*How their relationship changed with each other
*How their relationship changed with the animals
*What it was like to face childbirth as the first couple!
*Did the animals remember Eden?
*How A&E felt toward Cain after what he did.
*The grief of A&E after losing Abel.
*How the couple taught all those who came after them about God.
*How A&E felt about getting booted out of the garden.
*Did they ever want to sneak back in or just accept it?
Yes, I have a very active imagination, but more importantly (like the last book I read of Smith’s), this novel had me reaching for my Bible the entire time.
Yes, A&E’s story only spans a few chapters in the Bible and the author has written what “might” have happened in the cracks and crevices, it was SO wonderful to dream about heaven, the garden, and the earth with only A&E’s family.
We won’t talk about how comforting it was to grieve throughout the book with Adam and Eve about their son Abel’s death. And then the moment when Enoch (a descendant) gets to heaven and meets Abel. 😢😭
Oh, the tears. 😢😭
After loving the prologue, chapters 1 through 10 were not as exciting with all the logistics and marital strife between the couple.
But chapters 11 through 39, I couldn’t put down!
📚 CAUSE FOR PAUSE? No profanity, of course. There’s lots o’ romance and intimacy with Adam and Eve initially, although nothing is drawn out in detail. We aren’t “there."
There are scenes of childbirth, loss of people and animals, satan and friends roaming, virgins, family drama, etc.
Oh, and I'm not sure how detailed Cain's sin was against his brother, I skipped that page!!
📚 CONSIDER READING IF… like me, you want to know more about God, his love and forgiveness, the Old Testament, and an incredible true story told by a very talented author. 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟
There will be an in-depth review of this book (and other reviews & recs) in a June reading wrap up on my ‘Clean Reads’ YouTube channel. 💙
☕📚
February 14, 2023
What a beautiful thought provoking story that changed me , as it brought to life the possible thoughts and feelings Eve might have experienced. I never really considered how Eve felt when Cain murdered Abel until I read this. My sister is mourning the murder of her daughter so I can definitely identify with how Eve must have endured this. I also was struck with the eye opener of how difficult life must have been after being banished from the garden of Eden and the remorse she lived with for giving in to temptation. The parts dedicated to describing the spiritual realm gave me Holy goose bumps it was so realistic. Ms Smith did an amazing job with this subject of Eve as the descriptive words were poetic and flowed like a crystal river straight into my heart and spirit. I hated to see it end as I was totally engrossed from beginning to end. You definitely want to put this on your must read list. I just wish I could give it more stars as in my opinion it was an exceptional read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
August 8, 2023
Daughter of Eden
This book was an unexpected learning experience. I enjoyed the way it caused me to think of all the small details of what it might have been like for Eve in the garden and then after her sin and refusal to obey God the multitude of consequences that flooded life for both her and Adam. It was fascinating to think how the relationship between Adam and Eve would suffer, as well as their relationship with God. Beyond that, thinking about how likely they were untaught in the simplest of things, how to make cooking instruments, how to make tools, how to live with animals that were predators. Then to think when Eve became pregnant, she had no knowledge of the birth process. All these possible implication for life that might have been for Adam and Eve were fascinating.
Then to try to grasp what it might have been like to have your firstborn murder his brother. The author did a wonderful job in giving us a picture of how events might have transpired in the first family. And to consider how that first family grew and the issues over many years of man’s sinful bent.
Biblical “fiction” obviously must be a blending of facts with speculation. The author did a good job of presenting the facts of scripture, with a speculation on possible consequences of what happened. It certainly helped me to visualize that first family.
Redemption and Bible truths are not compromised when you read with an understanding that this is a blend of imagination and Biblical events recorded in Scripture. For me it broadened my view of how it might have been.
It covers a long period of time and I had never imagined what it must have been like for Enoch’s family when he disappeared. I enjoyed the connecting of dots between Eve and Methuselah.
I so appreciated the view that Eve had repeatedly failed God, but He never abandoned her. That most important truth resounded in the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Revell for an advance E copy. I will choose to read this author again.
This book was an unexpected learning experience. I enjoyed the way it caused me to think of all the small details of what it might have been like for Eve in the garden and then after her sin and refusal to obey God the multitude of consequences that flooded life for both her and Adam. It was fascinating to think how the relationship between Adam and Eve would suffer, as well as their relationship with God. Beyond that, thinking about how likely they were untaught in the simplest of things, how to make cooking instruments, how to make tools, how to live with animals that were predators. Then to think when Eve became pregnant, she had no knowledge of the birth process. All these possible implication for life that might have been for Adam and Eve were fascinating.
Then to try to grasp what it might have been like to have your firstborn murder his brother. The author did a wonderful job in giving us a picture of how events might have transpired in the first family. And to consider how that first family grew and the issues over many years of man’s sinful bent.
Biblical “fiction” obviously must be a blending of facts with speculation. The author did a good job of presenting the facts of scripture, with a speculation on possible consequences of what happened. It certainly helped me to visualize that first family.
Redemption and Bible truths are not compromised when you read with an understanding that this is a blend of imagination and Biblical events recorded in Scripture. For me it broadened my view of how it might have been.
It covers a long period of time and I had never imagined what it must have been like for Enoch’s family when he disappeared. I enjoyed the connecting of dots between Eve and Methuselah.
I so appreciated the view that Eve had repeatedly failed God, but He never abandoned her. That most important truth resounded in the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Revell for an advance E copy. I will choose to read this author again.
February 13, 2023
Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith is her newest released book based on the beginning of the book of Genesis.
This encompassed way more years than I thought this story would entail. It follows Eve throughout her entire life beginning when God created the heavens and the earth and follows their story of eating the fruit and being sent out of Eden.
Even though the first half of the story was a little slow for me, I found myself really enjoying the second part of the book a lot. This book had me going into my Bible as Jill reminds the audience of the lesser known stories in the Bible as well as Adam and Eve. The story also follows many of Adam and Eve's children as well and what they went through. I think my favorite part was Enoch's story.
*thank you to Jill Eileen Smith, Baker Publishing and #netgalley for a copy of this book to read and honestly give my thoughts.
This encompassed way more years than I thought this story would entail. It follows Eve throughout her entire life beginning when God created the heavens and the earth and follows their story of eating the fruit and being sent out of Eden.
Even though the first half of the story was a little slow for me, I found myself really enjoying the second part of the book a lot. This book had me going into my Bible as Jill reminds the audience of the lesser known stories in the Bible as well as Adam and Eve. The story also follows many of Adam and Eve's children as well and what they went through. I think my favorite part was Enoch's story.
*thank you to Jill Eileen Smith, Baker Publishing and #netgalley for a copy of this book to read and honestly give my thoughts.
November 29, 2022
Ever wonder what happened to Adam and Eve after the Garden?
This author has given us a possible look at what might happened and has done a wonderful job in capturing their story.
I loved every minute of this book and I was able to imagine how life was as the 1st people on Earth.
Must've been pretty lonely and definitely lots of hard work!
Smith's stories are always exciting and she puts our imagination into full gear.
Biblical stories are my very favorite! I love the rest of the story as they say. The Bible only gives us a glimpse but it is the very best book. But, its fun to imagine the rest. I had fun reading about Adam and Eve.
My heart goes out to Abel who didn't really deserve what he got. I was sad.
Cain was spoiled and self centered. I didn't like him.
I'm adding this to my list of favorites and keeper shelf with the rest of her books!
She's awesome and my favorite Biblical author!
I very much didn't want this beautiful story of redemption to end! I was sad when it did.
However; my heart was left feeling full and satisfied.
5 stars! I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This author has given us a possible look at what might happened and has done a wonderful job in capturing their story.
I loved every minute of this book and I was able to imagine how life was as the 1st people on Earth.
Must've been pretty lonely and definitely lots of hard work!
Smith's stories are always exciting and she puts our imagination into full gear.
Biblical stories are my very favorite! I love the rest of the story as they say. The Bible only gives us a glimpse but it is the very best book. But, its fun to imagine the rest. I had fun reading about Adam and Eve.
My heart goes out to Abel who didn't really deserve what he got. I was sad.
Cain was spoiled and self centered. I didn't like him.
I'm adding this to my list of favorites and keeper shelf with the rest of her books!
She's awesome and my favorite Biblical author!
I very much didn't want this beautiful story of redemption to end! I was sad when it did.
However; my heart was left feeling full and satisfied.
5 stars! I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 22, 2023
To Readers: Please remember this book is fiction and is this author's interpretation of what might have happened. Yes, the facts from the Bible are there--but the author does embellish them to suit her story. That's probably my biggest concern with this book. Could things have happened the way this author laid them out? yes. Did they? None of us knows beyond those facts recorded in Genesis.
If you're familiar with the Biblical stories in Genesis, the main events of this story will not be overly surprising. The book begins with Eve's creation and ends with Eve's death. It discusses the changes that happened after Even and then Adam ate of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and surmises that they both missed things from Eden--in particular the closeness they had with God there.
Other topics that come up in the course of the story: forgiveness, individual choice--choosing who or what you follow, loss (both to death and to choices that separate people), being responsible for your own choices.
If you're familiar with the Biblical stories in Genesis, the main events of this story will not be overly surprising. The book begins with Eve's creation and ends with Eve's death. It discusses the changes that happened after Even and then Adam ate of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and surmises that they both missed things from Eden--in particular the closeness they had with God there.
Other topics that come up in the course of the story: forgiveness, individual choice--choosing who or what you follow, loss (both to death and to choices that separate people), being responsible for your own choices.
January 25, 2023
This is Biblical fiction at its finest. Though we only see Eve's information in the first few chapters of the Bible and any archaeological evidence we may have had was washed away by the flood, Ms. Smith used passages in the law of Moses and the teachings of Jesus to supplement. I appreciated the thoughtfulness she put into her speculation of the missing details and the story she crafted was both beautiful and thought provoking. I enjoyed glimpses of what Eden may have been like, the process of Lucifer's fall, speculation on how the Nephilim came to be (and why that brought the judgment of the flood) as well as how Adam and Eve walked with God and what they saw of him and his angels and how their sin fully impacted them. I'd never given any thought to the kinds of things they needed to learn after being banished from the Garden nor how they may have longed for the Redeemer already. This was one story that though I knew what was going to happen when the serpent was tempting Eve that I wanted to shout at her "don't do it!" and really longed for a different ending. However, I appreciated the hope that was woven into the story as well as the judgment. I found the author's take on what happened to the Garden to be interesting as well. There was a lot in this novel that was thought provoking, but it fully drew me closer to my Savior and the knowledge of how much we lost all those years ago. One of my favorite elements was the meaning of Methuselah's name, and I appreciated Enoch's role and how his life was portrayed. All in all, I found this to be an excellent novel that had the themes found throughout Scripture pulled within in spite of the amount of speculation required to write it. Special thanks to Revell and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
June 29, 2024
I’m so very thankful for authors like Jill Eileen Smith who so obviously have a gift from the Lord Himself to write BIBLICAL fiction so well, staying true to God’s Word and filling in the missing pieces and details of these accounts in a way that perfectly aligns with the truth found in Scripture. I have been a Christian for 34 years and have heard and read of the stories depicted in this book many, many times. But now I can see them more clearly and dare I say more intimately almost as if I had been there myself - because of this book. Superb! Highly recommend!
February 29, 2024
4⭐️
From the Garden to the fall. From Cain and Able to Methuselah. This book covers Eves life. Creation to death and all the in-between. The joy of walking with God, the pain of separation, the guilt, the love and worry for her children. Real and raw Eve is brought to life.
Told through many perspectives, this is more than the story of Eve. It's the story of her family and God's redeeming love.
My Thoughts
This book has a very odd way of stating creation. It's not unbiblical, but not as most see the bible. Creation is done through the SON called here, The "creator." He tells the created to serve His Father. John 1:1 does lend this to be true, just an odd way of telling the story of Creation.
Adam and Eve are referred to as Adams. Seeing as Adam is the Hebrew word for earth and they came from the Earth, this is again correct, just jarring. I have always heard man referred to as man and woman, not Adams.
I greatly enjoyed Satan's backstory, outlining his fall and the reasons he decided to temp eve. I had never looked at it quite like that and found it interesting and enlightening. The author uses a small amount of creative licenses to state that Eve recognized Satan in the serpent but had no fear, even trusted him, not knowing he had fallen but recognizing him as an angel. Leading the reader to understand her temptation more. God had told them not to eat, but one of His Angels came down and told her it was ok. Who wouldn't trust an angel?
I loved the pure humanness of Adam. His anger over God even giving them a choice to disobey is a question I have often asked myself. If God's plan was for them to forever live in the Garden, then why allow evil to enter? Surly, he could have stopped Satan from entering? Even when Adam knows he needs God's help, he refuses to ask, holding onto his anger. Anger at God for allowing this and anger at himself for causing God's punishment, and yet God shows mercy and helps him, and ultimately, Adam returns and trys to teach his family to honor the Lord and call on His name.
I loved how the author portrayed the nature of sin. How within just a generation, worldly pleasure could outweigh the need for God. Even when completely submerged in the faith, just a few questions, a few doubts, could spread like fire and corrupt so many. How sad it must have been for Eve. To long to get back to the Garden. To long for that closeness with Him. Only to watch her children turn away so completely.
This book raised questions I never thought to ask and had me turning to my bible more and more with each page. Did Eve every try to return to the Garden? If Adam and Eve hadn't eaten the fruit would one of their children have? How did Enoch's family feel when he just disappeared to be with God? These questions aren't answered, but they are reflected enough to make the reader think.
Currently, I'm eagerly awaiting the follow-up book The Dove and the Ark 🕊
From the Garden to the fall. From Cain and Able to Methuselah. This book covers Eves life. Creation to death and all the in-between. The joy of walking with God, the pain of separation, the guilt, the love and worry for her children. Real and raw Eve is brought to life.
Told through many perspectives, this is more than the story of Eve. It's the story of her family and God's redeeming love.
My Thoughts
This book has a very odd way of stating creation. It's not unbiblical, but not as most see the bible. Creation is done through the SON called here, The "creator." He tells the created to serve His Father. John 1:1 does lend this to be true, just an odd way of telling the story of Creation.
Adam and Eve are referred to as Adams. Seeing as Adam is the Hebrew word for earth and they came from the Earth, this is again correct, just jarring. I have always heard man referred to as man and woman, not Adams.
I greatly enjoyed Satan's backstory, outlining his fall and the reasons he decided to temp eve. I had never looked at it quite like that and found it interesting and enlightening. The author uses a small amount of creative licenses to state that Eve recognized Satan in the serpent but had no fear, even trusted him, not knowing he had fallen but recognizing him as an angel. Leading the reader to understand her temptation more. God had told them not to eat, but one of His Angels came down and told her it was ok. Who wouldn't trust an angel?
I loved the pure humanness of Adam. His anger over God even giving them a choice to disobey is a question I have often asked myself. If God's plan was for them to forever live in the Garden, then why allow evil to enter? Surly, he could have stopped Satan from entering? Even when Adam knows he needs God's help, he refuses to ask, holding onto his anger. Anger at God for allowing this and anger at himself for causing God's punishment, and yet God shows mercy and helps him, and ultimately, Adam returns and trys to teach his family to honor the Lord and call on His name.
I loved how the author portrayed the nature of sin. How within just a generation, worldly pleasure could outweigh the need for God. Even when completely submerged in the faith, just a few questions, a few doubts, could spread like fire and corrupt so many. How sad it must have been for Eve. To long to get back to the Garden. To long for that closeness with Him. Only to watch her children turn away so completely.
This book raised questions I never thought to ask and had me turning to my bible more and more with each page. Did Eve every try to return to the Garden? If Adam and Eve hadn't eaten the fruit would one of their children have? How did Enoch's family feel when he just disappeared to be with God? These questions aren't answered, but they are reflected enough to make the reader think.
Currently, I'm eagerly awaiting the follow-up book The Dove and the Ark 🕊
January 20, 2023
Daughter of Eden: Eve’s Story - Book Review 🌳
Wow😭.
This book carried the essence of Biblical beauty. From Chapter 1, I was whisked away to the beginning, getting a glimpse of what the creation of the world might’ve looked like through a heavenly perspective. The beauty of Elohim and His creation, a totally perfect world, the dynamics between God, man, and angelic beings. Everything depicted was beautifully fictionalized and offers readers a breathtaking perspective of the creation of the world.
But then rebellion, sin, and death entered the picture. More than wondering why Eve disobeyed, I’ve always wondered why Lucifer rebelled. How could an angel who knew the very essence and perfection of God rebel? Why? Jill’s perspective of Lucifer’s rejection of Elohim and motivation Lucifer had to entice Eve and Adam was biblically accurate, heartbreaking, and eye opening.👇🏼
“If he would not be allowed the chance to return to the council and have all forgiven, he would go after the apple of God’s eye. The humans whom He loved. That would hurt Him more than anything.”
The fall was heartbreaking. I always get teary eyed when I read it in the Bible, for it is truly the saddest chapter of Scripture, the first account of humanity fearing their Creator instead of running to Him😭. Jill depicts the fall so expertly. The consequences and destruction because of the fall are so well described and fictionalized, a perfect balance of highlighting biblical truth with fictional possibilities.
I think what lowered my rating a bit was that towards the middle it got a bit too biographical for my taste. We follow many of Adam and Eve’s children’s lives through Eve’s perspective and it got a little tiresome at times for me. But the heart and essence of this book is still so beautiful and I love Jill’s unique takes on Biblical narratives. She was my first introduction to Biblical fiction and her books never fail to touch me in one way or another🥰.
The ending brought tears to my eyes and was a beautiful way to close the story of a woman who wasn’t perfect, who made mistakes and payed dearly for them, but whose Creator’s love never failed her. Jill truly did an amazing job fictionalizing a hard biblical account.
The quote Jill highlights in her authors note summarizes the core message of her story quite well,
“It is possible to die unsaved, and many do, but it is impossible to die unloved”
- Paris Reidhead
4 stars🤩
*I received a copy of *Daughter of Eden: Eve’s Story* from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive opinion, and all thoughts are my own
Wow😭.
This book carried the essence of Biblical beauty. From Chapter 1, I was whisked away to the beginning, getting a glimpse of what the creation of the world might’ve looked like through a heavenly perspective. The beauty of Elohim and His creation, a totally perfect world, the dynamics between God, man, and angelic beings. Everything depicted was beautifully fictionalized and offers readers a breathtaking perspective of the creation of the world.
But then rebellion, sin, and death entered the picture. More than wondering why Eve disobeyed, I’ve always wondered why Lucifer rebelled. How could an angel who knew the very essence and perfection of God rebel? Why? Jill’s perspective of Lucifer’s rejection of Elohim and motivation Lucifer had to entice Eve and Adam was biblically accurate, heartbreaking, and eye opening.👇🏼
“If he would not be allowed the chance to return to the council and have all forgiven, he would go after the apple of God’s eye. The humans whom He loved. That would hurt Him more than anything.”
The fall was heartbreaking. I always get teary eyed when I read it in the Bible, for it is truly the saddest chapter of Scripture, the first account of humanity fearing their Creator instead of running to Him😭. Jill depicts the fall so expertly. The consequences and destruction because of the fall are so well described and fictionalized, a perfect balance of highlighting biblical truth with fictional possibilities.
I think what lowered my rating a bit was that towards the middle it got a bit too biographical for my taste. We follow many of Adam and Eve’s children’s lives through Eve’s perspective and it got a little tiresome at times for me. But the heart and essence of this book is still so beautiful and I love Jill’s unique takes on Biblical narratives. She was my first introduction to Biblical fiction and her books never fail to touch me in one way or another🥰.
The ending brought tears to my eyes and was a beautiful way to close the story of a woman who wasn’t perfect, who made mistakes and payed dearly for them, but whose Creator’s love never failed her. Jill truly did an amazing job fictionalizing a hard biblical account.
The quote Jill highlights in her authors note summarizes the core message of her story quite well,
“It is possible to die unsaved, and many do, but it is impossible to die unloved”
- Paris Reidhead
4 stars🤩
*I received a copy of *Daughter of Eden: Eve’s Story* from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive opinion, and all thoughts are my own
February 9, 2024
I’ve always been intrigued by the account of creation in Genesis. What was it like for the first two people God created? How did Adam feel when he woke up to the newly-created Eve? How did Eve feel as she experienced a perfect relationship with both her husband and her Creator? And how did they survive when they lost paradise through their own stubborn actions and were suddenly cast into a perilous world?
This book seeks to answer those questions.
Characters: Adam and Eve are both relatable characters, portrayed well. It’s understandable why they would eat the fruit of the forbidden tree (even as we’re all shouting at them not to do it). But there also isn’t too much depth to them. Maybe it’s just because the story rushed by so quickly (more on that in the writing section), but it was hard to feel that they were actually people.
We occasionally read from Lucifer’s viewpoint, which was interesting. Honestly, he came across as more of a pouting child than the fearsome adversary he is. Obviously, delving too deep into his perspective would have been disturbing, but… I don’t know. It felt too shallow.
Content: There mentions of Adam and Eve “coming together as man and wife” (written exactly like that). If you didn’t know what that meant, you wouldn’t learn anything from here. Adam and Eve discuss having a baby (how long it will take, what it will do to Eve’s body, etc.), and Eve gives birth on page a few times (but there’s nothing graphic at all).
Adam and Eve’s children marry each other (which seems creepy to us, but it really wasn’t for them).
Demons appear on earth and snatch human girls to rape them, thus creating the Nephilim (which… we can debate later).
Chain’s murder of Abel happens on page, but again, it’s not graphic. It’s just terribly sad.
Writing: While the author does a great job of presenting Eve’s story from beginning to end, it’s just too much, given the small size of the book. To cover nearly 1,000 years adequately would require at least double the page count. As such, the story feels rushed. We regularly skip ahead thirty, fifty, even hundreds of years into the future. It’s hard to keep up with it all.
There’a so much untapped potential in this story. If the author had spent a few more years on it, it could have been a truly epic tale. But I understand that that’s not really the purpose of the book, so take that as you will.
Summary: This book made me think. It wasn’t as deep as I wanted it to be, nor did it cover all that I felt it should have. But it intrigued me, to the extent that I would have read it in one sitting if I’d had the time. It’s not a perfect book by any means, but I did enjoy it, and I’d recommend it to biblical fiction fans aged 16+.
This book seeks to answer those questions.
Characters: Adam and Eve are both relatable characters, portrayed well. It’s understandable why they would eat the fruit of the forbidden tree (even as we’re all shouting at them not to do it). But there also isn’t too much depth to them. Maybe it’s just because the story rushed by so quickly (more on that in the writing section), but it was hard to feel that they were actually people.
We occasionally read from Lucifer’s viewpoint, which was interesting. Honestly, he came across as more of a pouting child than the fearsome adversary he is. Obviously, delving too deep into his perspective would have been disturbing, but… I don’t know. It felt too shallow.
Content: There mentions of Adam and Eve “coming together as man and wife” (written exactly like that). If you didn’t know what that meant, you wouldn’t learn anything from here. Adam and Eve discuss having a baby (how long it will take, what it will do to Eve’s body, etc.), and Eve gives birth on page a few times (but there’s nothing graphic at all).
Adam and Eve’s children marry each other (which seems creepy to us, but it really wasn’t for them).
Demons appear on earth and snatch human girls to rape them, thus creating the Nephilim (which… we can debate later).
Chain’s murder of Abel happens on page, but again, it’s not graphic. It’s just terribly sad.
Writing: While the author does a great job of presenting Eve’s story from beginning to end, it’s just too much, given the small size of the book. To cover nearly 1,000 years adequately would require at least double the page count. As such, the story feels rushed. We regularly skip ahead thirty, fifty, even hundreds of years into the future. It’s hard to keep up with it all.
There’a so much untapped potential in this story. If the author had spent a few more years on it, it could have been a truly epic tale. But I understand that that’s not really the purpose of the book, so take that as you will.
Summary: This book made me think. It wasn’t as deep as I wanted it to be, nor did it cover all that I felt it should have. But it intrigued me, to the extent that I would have read it in one sitting if I’d had the time. It’s not a perfect book by any means, but I did enjoy it, and I’d recommend it to biblical fiction fans aged 16+.
February 7, 2023
“Please forgive me, Adonai. Please come to us again. Show us how to live, how to survive this world, how to care for children, how to please You outside of Eden. I miss you,” Eve prays to the Almighty in Jill Eileen Smith’s novel, Daughter of Eden.
~ What ~
This three-hundred-and-thirty-six-page paperback targets those interested in Biblical fiction about the beginning of creation on earth with Adam and Eve. With no profanity, topics of illness, murder, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes a note to the reader, acknowledgments, an excerpt of the author’s prior novel, her biography, and advertisements.
This story follows Adam and Eve when they are in the Garden of Eden and cast out, only to face the ongoing struggles to survive and reproduce on the earth. Covering several generations, it contains how the pair learns to accept loss, forgive others, and attempt to do things on their own as they regret their separation from God. It also includes Satan’s fall from Heaven, Cain killing Abel and being sent away by God, and Enoch’s walk with God.
~ Why ~
I have always enjoyed fictional books about the Bible, yet I have read only a few about the first five chapters of Genesis. I appreciate the tender details of Eve’s dealing with the guilt of her sin of disobedience, the understanding of obeying Adam, and the longing and seeking of the Redeemer. I liked that the author incorporated the evil watchers of men, Nephilim, and giants into the story.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like reads that are based on Scripture will avoid this book. Some may disagree with the ample liberties taken that are not noticeably included in the Word such as Adam and Eve being “born” on the same day, Eve giving birth to over thirty children, and Enoch going into the Garden of Eden. I found the storyline got sidetracked a few times when it focused on other characters instead of Eve.
~ Wish
While it is clear that the author did plenty of research with the little information available, I felt she veered off-topic on a few questionable areas that may not have been needed. Adding discussion questions at the end would be thoughtful for book clubs.
~ Want ~
If you like a story about Adam and Eve’s dealing with pride, guilt, and control in their new earthly environment, this is a good read, but be aware it is a fictional account.
Thanks to Revell for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
This three-hundred-and-thirty-six-page paperback targets those interested in Biblical fiction about the beginning of creation on earth with Adam and Eve. With no profanity, topics of illness, murder, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes a note to the reader, acknowledgments, an excerpt of the author’s prior novel, her biography, and advertisements.
This story follows Adam and Eve when they are in the Garden of Eden and cast out, only to face the ongoing struggles to survive and reproduce on the earth. Covering several generations, it contains how the pair learns to accept loss, forgive others, and attempt to do things on their own as they regret their separation from God. It also includes Satan’s fall from Heaven, Cain killing Abel and being sent away by God, and Enoch’s walk with God.
~ Why ~
I have always enjoyed fictional books about the Bible, yet I have read only a few about the first five chapters of Genesis. I appreciate the tender details of Eve’s dealing with the guilt of her sin of disobedience, the understanding of obeying Adam, and the longing and seeking of the Redeemer. I liked that the author incorporated the evil watchers of men, Nephilim, and giants into the story.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like reads that are based on Scripture will avoid this book. Some may disagree with the ample liberties taken that are not noticeably included in the Word such as Adam and Eve being “born” on the same day, Eve giving birth to over thirty children, and Enoch going into the Garden of Eden. I found the storyline got sidetracked a few times when it focused on other characters instead of Eve.
~ Wish
While it is clear that the author did plenty of research with the little information available, I felt she veered off-topic on a few questionable areas that may not have been needed. Adding discussion questions at the end would be thoughtful for book clubs.
~ Want ~
If you like a story about Adam and Eve’s dealing with pride, guilt, and control in their new earthly environment, this is a good read, but be aware it is a fictional account.
Thanks to Revell for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
March 15, 2023
3.5 maybe. I have such mixed feelings because it destroyed me and yet I'm also not convinced about some elements. That said, it's as good an interpretation as Adam & His Kin, I suppose, and I totally loved that one.
February 1, 2023
Received both an eARC & finished copy for review.
This was a well written biblical fiction on the story of Eve, Adam and their family. This was superb from start to finish. I adored the writing, I loved the raw emotions. Enjoyed the real emotional and mental well-being of the characters. This definitely is descriptive and almost has a "flowery" style of writing.
Eve was well written and Adam as well. I enjoyed seeing the beginning of time even to the earth and angels. Seeing how Lucifer fall and became Satan. Seeing the nephilim born. Seeing the trials and tribulations. Seeing the story of Cain and Abel, experiencing Enoch and even Seth. Just the generations of Adam -- so great.
This was simply everything to me. I truly enjoyed it from beginning to end. There are no words to express my feelings completely on this book. It was just an experience and I truly enjoyed it!
Highly recommend!!
This was a well written biblical fiction on the story of Eve, Adam and their family. This was superb from start to finish. I adored the writing, I loved the raw emotions. Enjoyed the real emotional and mental well-being of the characters. This definitely is descriptive and almost has a "flowery" style of writing.
Eve was well written and Adam as well. I enjoyed seeing the beginning of time even to the earth and angels. Seeing how Lucifer fall and became Satan. Seeing the nephilim born. Seeing the trials and tribulations. Seeing the story of Cain and Abel, experiencing Enoch and even Seth. Just the generations of Adam -- so great.
This was simply everything to me. I truly enjoyed it from beginning to end. There are no words to express my feelings completely on this book. It was just an experience and I truly enjoyed it!
Highly recommend!!
February 19, 2023
"Daughter of Eden: Eve's Story" is the latest release by well-known and acclaimed Biblical Fiction author, Jill Eileen Smith. The novel seeks to tell the story of Eve through her own eyes, through her experiences with creation, the garden, the Fall, and her long-life span on the earth. It strives to peel back the veil on what Eve experienced with temptation, becoming a mother, grandmother, and still wanting to walk with God while dealing with the weight of the choice she made to sin.
The premise of the book is a wonderful one. However, the book veers greatly in focus in the telling of the story. Sometimes it shifts to Adam, Cain, Seth, Enoch, and various other characters' perspectives. As such, the narration and narrative become a bit disjointed. This is where the title does the book a great disservice. Had the title been more encompassing, then these segways to other voices would have been natural and expected. However, since this book is titled, "Eve's Story" the reader anticipates a more linear narrative from predominately the main character's point of view.
My second bone of contention is with the depiction of Adam post-Fall. Adam is sullen, prone to angry outbursts, and sex crazed. It is literally a modern stereotypical characterization of man. Across the man's nine-hundred-year lifespan, he does not change. He doesn't even tell Eve he loves her until about year eight hundred. I expected a far more nuanced version of him considering he once was the perfect man and then fell into sin.
Eve's portrayal is also a bit uneven at times. She struggles with being a mom to her first two children, but when the story leaps ahead and she has dozens, she is super mom with no issues. She barely is affected by the death of Abel and is ready to marry off his widow within hours of his death. However, later on in the book when one of her daughters dies, then she is shown with intense grief. Eve's quick forgiveness of Cain is completed without any semblance of emotional struggle. (Adam actually gets a better storyline here.) She bares dozens upon dozens of children that she seems to barely have any relationship with, but has an incredibly close one with Enoch, her grandson. It's hard to get a handle on who she is as a person when there are so many fits and starts to the story.
My final issue is with the cover art. I am so disheartened to see a very white woman on this cover when she was most likely a woman of color. I think it does a great disservice to our brothers and sisters in faith around the world to keep portraying our first parents as white.
Overall, the novel lacks centrality of focus that limits it from being the great novel it could have been. I was given an advanced reader copy of the novel as part of the Revell Reads blogger team. All opinions expressed are my own.
The premise of the book is a wonderful one. However, the book veers greatly in focus in the telling of the story. Sometimes it shifts to Adam, Cain, Seth, Enoch, and various other characters' perspectives. As such, the narration and narrative become a bit disjointed. This is where the title does the book a great disservice. Had the title been more encompassing, then these segways to other voices would have been natural and expected. However, since this book is titled, "Eve's Story" the reader anticipates a more linear narrative from predominately the main character's point of view.
My second bone of contention is with the depiction of Adam post-Fall. Adam is sullen, prone to angry outbursts, and sex crazed. It is literally a modern stereotypical characterization of man. Across the man's nine-hundred-year lifespan, he does not change. He doesn't even tell Eve he loves her until about year eight hundred. I expected a far more nuanced version of him considering he once was the perfect man and then fell into sin.
Eve's portrayal is also a bit uneven at times. She struggles with being a mom to her first two children, but when the story leaps ahead and she has dozens, she is super mom with no issues. She barely is affected by the death of Abel and is ready to marry off his widow within hours of his death. However, later on in the book when one of her daughters dies, then she is shown with intense grief. Eve's quick forgiveness of Cain is completed without any semblance of emotional struggle. (Adam actually gets a better storyline here.) She bares dozens upon dozens of children that she seems to barely have any relationship with, but has an incredibly close one with Enoch, her grandson. It's hard to get a handle on who she is as a person when there are so many fits and starts to the story.
My final issue is with the cover art. I am so disheartened to see a very white woman on this cover when she was most likely a woman of color. I think it does a great disservice to our brothers and sisters in faith around the world to keep portraying our first parents as white.
Overall, the novel lacks centrality of focus that limits it from being the great novel it could have been. I was given an advanced reader copy of the novel as part of the Revell Reads blogger team. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 15, 2023
Jill Eileen Smith is one of my favorite biblical fiction authors. I enjoy her ability to make the Bible come alive, her attention to historical detail, and meticulous research. When I saw she was tackling Eve and the Garden of Eden, I was intrigued to see how she would approach the story. In Daughter of Eden, we follow Eve from the Garden of Eden through to her death. The stories of Cain, Able, and Enoch are included as well.
The story was thought provoking and gave me a new appreciation for what it must have been like to go from a perfect world to a fallen one. I never thought about how it would be to have wild animals change from friends to foes. I also appreciated her interpretation of how Adam and Eve dealt with Able’s death. It must have been heartbreaking to have your first son murder your other son and then turn away from all you hold dear. I also found the encounters with the Nephilim and watchers both frightening and interesting.
While I have some theological differences with the story, the essence of how difficult it must have been for Adam and Eve was portrayed in a realistic, thoughtful way. The sorrow at being separated from God’s presence was devastating and this theme was constant throughout the book. It was also fascinating to read about all they had to learn to survive. The way the author depicted Lucifer and his followers stalking Adam and Eve and their children added a suspenseful element to the story.
To be completely honest, I had mixed emotions with how Adam and Eve were characterized. Though the Fall was extremely heartbreaking for Adam, I don’t know that he held such a grudge against Eve. His attitude throughout the book was a bit off putting. Eve was often painted as quite subservient. I would have liked to have seen more of the courageous woman she must have been. Their relationship seemed quite stagnant. I missed the romance and relationship growth this author does so well. My favorite character was Enoch and I enjoyed it whenever he was on the page.
It’s definitely an interesting, thought provoking story and I appreciate all the work that went into it. Those who enjoy biblical and historical fiction might like this book. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 3 1/2 stars raised to 4.
The story was thought provoking and gave me a new appreciation for what it must have been like to go from a perfect world to a fallen one. I never thought about how it would be to have wild animals change from friends to foes. I also appreciated her interpretation of how Adam and Eve dealt with Able’s death. It must have been heartbreaking to have your first son murder your other son and then turn away from all you hold dear. I also found the encounters with the Nephilim and watchers both frightening and interesting.
While I have some theological differences with the story, the essence of how difficult it must have been for Adam and Eve was portrayed in a realistic, thoughtful way. The sorrow at being separated from God’s presence was devastating and this theme was constant throughout the book. It was also fascinating to read about all they had to learn to survive. The way the author depicted Lucifer and his followers stalking Adam and Eve and their children added a suspenseful element to the story.
To be completely honest, I had mixed emotions with how Adam and Eve were characterized. Though the Fall was extremely heartbreaking for Adam, I don’t know that he held such a grudge against Eve. His attitude throughout the book was a bit off putting. Eve was often painted as quite subservient. I would have liked to have seen more of the courageous woman she must have been. Their relationship seemed quite stagnant. I missed the romance and relationship growth this author does so well. My favorite character was Enoch and I enjoyed it whenever he was on the page.
It’s definitely an interesting, thought provoking story and I appreciate all the work that went into it. Those who enjoy biblical and historical fiction might like this book. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 3 1/2 stars raised to 4.
January 1, 2023
Such a fascinating take on what could have happened in the Garden of Eden and with Adam and Eve through the years. This is probably my favorite book of Jill Eileen Smith's. Recommended for readers of biblical fiction. I look forward to more books from this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
April 2, 2023
Daughter of Eden is a very thought provoking book. Adam and Eve would have understood better than anyone the price that sin played on the earth and humanity. After all, they had lived in a perfect world. Jill Eileen Smith captured what that transition after sin might have been like. The Bible is limited on what it tells us about their lives. So she used literary license to fill in the gaps. But nothing written appears to contradict what we know from the Bible
I was totally engrossed in this book. And while I knew from scripture some of the events, I still caught myself hoping or a different outcome. Daughter of Eden really helped me feel the grief of what Adam and Eve gave up because of sin. I really enjoyed this authors style of writing and will definitely be reading more of her books. This book was a little longer than I preferred and kept my focus primarily in the first few chapters. I received a complimentary copy of Daughter of Eden with no obligation. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I was totally engrossed in this book. And while I knew from scripture some of the events, I still caught myself hoping or a different outcome. Daughter of Eden really helped me feel the grief of what Adam and Eve gave up because of sin. I really enjoyed this authors style of writing and will definitely be reading more of her books. This book was a little longer than I preferred and kept my focus primarily in the first few chapters. I received a complimentary copy of Daughter of Eden with no obligation. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 2, 2023
This is very good! Five stars for sure.
I went into this with an open mind. What a story to take on! I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it was very very well written. I don’t want to give spoilers but will just say-it’s so much more than the story of Adam and Eve. It’s about God, the first people He created, the unseen world, the promised Redeemer, and so much more. And I’ll add-I’ve never read a more perfect ending to a book ❤️ It was just well done.
In the beginning of the book there is a good bit of passion between Adam and Eve, to reflect Gods original design of pure love and passion between husband and wife. If you have a young reader-I would encourage you to read it first to see if you’re comfortable with it. As a mom of growing kids I try to filter for those things so I just wanted to mention that.
This is definitely a must read if you enjoy biblical fiction!
I went into this with an open mind. What a story to take on! I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it was very very well written. I don’t want to give spoilers but will just say-it’s so much more than the story of Adam and Eve. It’s about God, the first people He created, the unseen world, the promised Redeemer, and so much more. And I’ll add-I’ve never read a more perfect ending to a book ❤️ It was just well done.
In the beginning of the book there is a good bit of passion between Adam and Eve, to reflect Gods original design of pure love and passion between husband and wife. If you have a young reader-I would encourage you to read it first to see if you’re comfortable with it. As a mom of growing kids I try to filter for those things so I just wanted to mention that.
This is definitely a must read if you enjoy biblical fiction!
April 28, 2025
3.5
This was such a fun read for me and really brought the characters to life in a way I haven’t experienced before. The timeline was slightly confusing but… I’d expect that for a person who lived 800+ years😂😂
This was such a fun read for me and really brought the characters to life in a way I haven’t experienced before. The timeline was slightly confusing but… I’d expect that for a person who lived 800+ years😂😂
February 28, 2023
Jill Eileen Smith has taken a bible story that has so little information about it in the bible, and truly made it come to life. It was so fun to read her take on Adam and Eve and their journey. The emotion they had throughout the entire book really spoke to me. Made me think about how it must have truly been to be the first people created, but also the first people to sin. Even reading about some of Lucifer's thoughts in the process really makes you realize the reason we do sin. The tempter is out there and is real. He tempts us on a daily basis.
Do we know that these were their exact thoughts and how everything went? No. That's the fun of biblical fiction. You can fictionalize, use your imagination and run with it. When I read my bible, I try to imagine the scene in my head, and sometimes that includes a little ficitonalization - especially with tone and facial expressions. The thing we need to do is distinguish that we understand it's not actually God's Word. It's an author's interpretation of what could have happened. As long as we know that going in, and rely on the Bible as the only True Word of God, then we're good.
Back to Smith's story. It really just opened my eyes and made my connect with this Bible figures even more. It made me want to dive back into Genesis and see what nuggets of information she gleaned from it. Made me want to dive into references and historical documents to see if I could find anything on my own. That's the beauty of biblical fiction to me. It makes me want to learn more.
If you enjoy biblical fiction then I highly recommend Daughter of Eden. And grab your bible while you're reading it. Look up verses as you read and see where the similarities are. I think it'll make for a fun reading experience.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Do we know that these were their exact thoughts and how everything went? No. That's the fun of biblical fiction. You can fictionalize, use your imagination and run with it. When I read my bible, I try to imagine the scene in my head, and sometimes that includes a little ficitonalization - especially with tone and facial expressions. The thing we need to do is distinguish that we understand it's not actually God's Word. It's an author's interpretation of what could have happened. As long as we know that going in, and rely on the Bible as the only True Word of God, then we're good.
Back to Smith's story. It really just opened my eyes and made my connect with this Bible figures even more. It made me want to dive back into Genesis and see what nuggets of information she gleaned from it. Made me want to dive into references and historical documents to see if I could find anything on my own. That's the beauty of biblical fiction to me. It makes me want to learn more.
If you enjoy biblical fiction then I highly recommend Daughter of Eden. And grab your bible while you're reading it. Look up verses as you read and see where the similarities are. I think it'll make for a fun reading experience.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 8, 2023
I knew I’d love Daughter of Eden: Eve’s Story before I ever read a word, because it’s written by Jill Eileen Smith. I’ve loved every single book I’ve read authored by this brilliant storyteller. Her Biblical fiction is astonishing, making scriptural characters and events come to life. In this story, the opening scene of the creation of the angels, sets the tone for the rest of the book so nicely.
I’m delighted to meet Eve in a new way, seeing and living life though her eyes and experiences. Especially when she and Adam felt separated from God. What an emotional time. There are several points of view throughout, but I connected deepest with Eve and empathized with her doubt, guilt, and shame.
I love the title, storytelling style, beautiful messages, and the gorgeous cover art! This is Biblical Fiction at its finest.
First Line: The first time he opened his eyes, light, brilliant and pure, moved in colored ribbons about him.
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Page Count: 336
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I’m delighted to meet Eve in a new way, seeing and living life though her eyes and experiences. Especially when she and Adam felt separated from God. What an emotional time. There are several points of view throughout, but I connected deepest with Eve and empathized with her doubt, guilt, and shame.
I love the title, storytelling style, beautiful messages, and the gorgeous cover art! This is Biblical Fiction at its finest.
First Line: The first time he opened his eyes, light, brilliant and pure, moved in colored ribbons about him.
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Page Count: 336
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
January 31, 2023
Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith is a poignant biblical fiction novel that had me captivated from page one until the end. I am still pondering the author’s perspective of the Garden of Eden and Heaven. This is Eve’s story and so much more.
This depiction of creation and the life of Eve is simply endearing. It is evident that author Smith did extensive research on the subject. She worked out how many of my questions might have been. Her skillful pen painted a beautiful picture of Eden and a heartbreaking look at how the Fall could have played out. As I read I could feel the majesty of the Almighty and imagine His mighty works and love.
My heart softened for Eve and what I previously envisioned her to be. There is so much to love about this creative, heartfelt book. It had me going back to my Bible to reference the story. Her version of the Nephilim was credible and aligned with what I have read. I was happy and sad all throughout this emotional book.
This is a book for everyone. Non-Christians and Christians both should enjoy this extraordinary novel. It brings the Bible and its people to life. Any reading group should definitely choose this, as members will want to discuss it as it is read. There is so much to ponder and talk about with this mesmerizing book.
At the end of the amazing story, you will find author notes and a preview of her next book. I am looking forward to this one. It is sure to be another great read, although Daughter of Eve will be tough to top.
I highly recommend it to everyone. It would make a thoughtful gift for any reader. My rating is a 5+ stars. A copy was provided by NetGalley but these are my honest words.
This depiction of creation and the life of Eve is simply endearing. It is evident that author Smith did extensive research on the subject. She worked out how many of my questions might have been. Her skillful pen painted a beautiful picture of Eden and a heartbreaking look at how the Fall could have played out. As I read I could feel the majesty of the Almighty and imagine His mighty works and love.
My heart softened for Eve and what I previously envisioned her to be. There is so much to love about this creative, heartfelt book. It had me going back to my Bible to reference the story. Her version of the Nephilim was credible and aligned with what I have read. I was happy and sad all throughout this emotional book.
This is a book for everyone. Non-Christians and Christians both should enjoy this extraordinary novel. It brings the Bible and its people to life. Any reading group should definitely choose this, as members will want to discuss it as it is read. There is so much to ponder and talk about with this mesmerizing book.
At the end of the amazing story, you will find author notes and a preview of her next book. I am looking forward to this one. It is sure to be another great read, although Daughter of Eve will be tough to top.
I highly recommend it to everyone. It would make a thoughtful gift for any reader. My rating is a 5+ stars. A copy was provided by NetGalley but these are my honest words.
February 27, 2023
Biblical fiction would always be my favorite sub-genre of Christian fiction. And Daughter Of Eden is one to read.
The author maximised great creativity and skill in crafting a wonderful story. In the hands of the right reader this book would be explosive.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
The author maximised great creativity and skill in crafting a wonderful story. In the hands of the right reader this book would be explosive.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
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