What do you think?
Rate this book
Jezebel
With a bold voice reminiscent of Madeline Miller’s Circe, a stunning reimagining of the story of a fierce princess from Tyre and her infamous legacy
Jezebel was born into the world howling. She intends to leave it the same way.
When Jezebel learns she can’t be a king like her father simply because she’s a girl, she vows never to become someone’s decorative wife, nameless and lost to history. At fifteen she’s married off, despite her protests, to Prince Ahab of Israel. There, she does what she must to gain power and remake the dry and distant kingdom in the image of her beloved, prosperous seaside homeland of Tyre, beginning by building temples to the gods she grew up worshipping. As her initiatives usher in an era of prosperity for Israel, her new subjects love her, and her name rings through the land.
Then Elijah, the prophet of Yahweh and her former lover, begins to speak out against her. Bitter at having been abandoned by Jezebel, he lashes out, calling her a slut. Harlot. Witch. And the people, revering their prophet’s message, turn on her.
As ancient powers and faiths are pitted against each other, bloodshed descends on Israel and Jezebel faces the fall of her legacy. Determined despite the odds to make Israel a great nation, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to protect her family, her throne—her name. A stunning revision of a notorious queen’s story, Jezebel is a thrilling lyrical debut about a fierce woman who refuses to be forgotten.
Jezebel was born into the world howling. She intends to leave it the same way.
When Jezebel learns she can’t be a king like her father simply because she’s a girl, she vows never to become someone’s decorative wife, nameless and lost to history. At fifteen she’s married off, despite her protests, to Prince Ahab of Israel. There, she does what she must to gain power and remake the dry and distant kingdom in the image of her beloved, prosperous seaside homeland of Tyre, beginning by building temples to the gods she grew up worshipping. As her initiatives usher in an era of prosperity for Israel, her new subjects love her, and her name rings through the land.
Then Elijah, the prophet of Yahweh and her former lover, begins to speak out against her. Bitter at having been abandoned by Jezebel, he lashes out, calling her a slut. Harlot. Witch. And the people, revering their prophet’s message, turn on her.
As ancient powers and faiths are pitted against each other, bloodshed descends on Israel and Jezebel faces the fall of her legacy. Determined despite the odds to make Israel a great nation, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to protect her family, her throne—her name. A stunning revision of a notorious queen’s story, Jezebel is a thrilling lyrical debut about a fierce woman who refuses to be forgotten.
288 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2023
104 people are currently reading
13205 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 386 reviews
January 10, 2024
This book. Dear God, I could of and honestly wish to write entire essays on it.
If you are like me you probably decided to read this based on it being compared to Circe by Madeline Miller, another one of my favourite books.
However while both books do feature women forging their own paths, breaking free or attempting to do so from the shackles of misogyny, be warned : Jezebel is a power hungry woman. She rages often in this book. Unlike Circe who wanted her own independence and freedom, Jezebel wants political power. She wants to be known,seen and recognized for being a woman who has done better than a king could to provide for her nation.
The story begins with Jezebels childhood and more specifically with her birth. As we read about her growing up ,we see her form adoration for her Gods, especially Astarte who she believes to have been blessed by, and watch with displeasure her own mother conforming into what a woman was ought to act like.
Then we get to see Jezebel coming into the age deemed appropriate for marriage, where her own family forces her away into the unknown to her land that is Israel. She vows to make that war torned country learn the same prosperity if not more, than the one her own homeland had. Prosperity for which she will make sure to be thanked for. Prosperity which will remain known in history as her own doing, instead of her husband's.
The book tackles themes such as misogynistic expectations for women from their very own families, women struggling to gain power that is handed to men from the very moment they are borned, religion, love, men claiming to love women when just craving idolized version of them who conform their own wants, miscarriage, some themes of infertility, female friendships and finally female rage.
Im very careful when using popular buzzwords such as "female rage" so please do trust me when I say that this book captures that feeling perfectly.
This book is so short yet so powerful. We get to see the entirety of Jezebels life, we get to actually feel so strongly for her, both anger against her for certain acts and against those around her for how they treat her.
Also the writing was very interesting, while at moments, some of the points the author wanted to make were crystal clear, many times an act committed by Jezebel or her way of thinking could be interpreted in many different ways ( I am not going to spoil anything of course, however I am referring to THE sheets scene ) (if you have read the book you will know)
Overall my only complaint was the lack of vivid descriptions surrounding the world around Jezebel, however I AM strongly recommending this for everyone, as this is a story I'm going to be carrying within me for a long time.
I simply cannot wait to read what ever else Barnard publishes.
If you are like me you probably decided to read this based on it being compared to Circe by Madeline Miller, another one of my favourite books.
However while both books do feature women forging their own paths, breaking free or attempting to do so from the shackles of misogyny, be warned : Jezebel is a power hungry woman. She rages often in this book. Unlike Circe who wanted her own independence and freedom, Jezebel wants political power. She wants to be known,seen and recognized for being a woman who has done better than a king could to provide for her nation.
The story begins with Jezebels childhood and more specifically with her birth. As we read about her growing up ,we see her form adoration for her Gods, especially Astarte who she believes to have been blessed by, and watch with displeasure her own mother conforming into what a woman was ought to act like.
Then we get to see Jezebel coming into the age deemed appropriate for marriage, where her own family forces her away into the unknown to her land that is Israel. She vows to make that war torned country learn the same prosperity if not more, than the one her own homeland had. Prosperity for which she will make sure to be thanked for. Prosperity which will remain known in history as her own doing, instead of her husband's.
The book tackles themes such as misogynistic expectations for women from their very own families, women struggling to gain power that is handed to men from the very moment they are borned, religion, love, men claiming to love women when just craving idolized version of them who conform their own wants, miscarriage, some themes of infertility, female friendships and finally female rage.
Im very careful when using popular buzzwords such as "female rage" so please do trust me when I say that this book captures that feeling perfectly.
This book is so short yet so powerful. We get to see the entirety of Jezebels life, we get to actually feel so strongly for her, both anger against her for certain acts and against those around her for how they treat her.
Also the writing was very interesting, while at moments, some of the points the author wanted to make were crystal clear, many times an act committed by Jezebel or her way of thinking could be interpreted in many different ways ( I am not going to spoil anything of course, however I am referring to THE sheets scene ) (if you have read the book you will know)
Overall my only complaint was the lack of vivid descriptions surrounding the world around Jezebel, however I AM strongly recommending this for everyone, as this is a story I'm going to be carrying within me for a long time.
I simply cannot wait to read what ever else Barnard publishes.
February 3, 2023
I really loved this one. But ugh. Stop with the comparisons to Circe, publishers. This book stands on its own as a fascinating recharacterization of the evil queen Jezebel. Her story will stay with me for a long time, I think.
September 25, 2025
“He had never loved me. How could you love that which you did not know?”
― Megan Barnard, Jezebel
Wow.
This was some book. As you may have guessed from the title, it’s a reimagining of the story of Jezebel.
I went into this, really not knowing much. I was familiar with some aspects of the original story, but I had forgotten a lot of it.
Much of it came back to me as I was reading but there are still things that I didn’t know and though this is a reimagining, the names are still authentic.
This is one where there’s so much to say. First of all, is this not one of the most stunning book covers you’ve ever seen? I mean I could just stare at it for hours, that’s how beautiful it is.
I loved the visual element, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to look at the sea again without thinking about glimmering blue glass.
Jezebel herself was reimagined here as a fiery and somewhat haughty Lady.
She’s born, thinking herself a goddess through many of her childhood years until her father is forced to tell her A brutal truth.
That truth is that her name will not be remembered or be written about because she is a woman and can never be king.
Of course, Jezebel does not accept this. She is fiery and strong-willed, and determined to go down in history as a great queen.
Now here’s where things get tricky. I didn’t like Jezebel all that much through most of the book. I felt frustration trying to connect to her. I realize that she was not written necessarily to be likable, but it was really tough for me not to recoil at some of her decisions.
There are going to be spoilers here.
SPOILERS:
Elijah Was so evil.. Now I know this was a reimagining and I readily admit I don’t know the true story in-depth as I said, I know a few snippets, but I learned them when I was very young so I just was stunned at how much he changed In this book so quickly.
I am going to be referring to him as E. throughout the review because his name is so hard to spell
If there was one thing I would say about the book, it’s that I really wanted to know more in depth how E. could go from a kind and tenderhearted scribe to an absolutely evil monster lunatic who murders priestesses.
I was very frustrated continually by his character. I mean, I realize that he claimed to be anointed by his God, but he was also saying this God did not like cruelty, and some of the things E. Did were beyond cruel, and into the sadistic.
The ending left me a little confused as I felt like it was rushed with two of Jezebel son’s dying one after the other very quickly.
This book is also unbelievably sad, and it’s a book where you’re not gonna feel satisfied at the end by anything as it seems that all the good hearted people are dead, and all the evil people get away with things.
I mean, I know that many books have sad endings, but damn, this was really really, really sad! I didn’t feel satisfied by anything when I finished the book.
So it’s a tough book to rate. For those who enjoy historical fiction and re-imaginings I have no doubt you’ll enjoy this book. I did despite the fact that I had a few minor complaints as I wrote above, I am glad I read it.
I think it’s also a good book to read if you are a history buff. Even if it’s a reimagining, you will learn a lot about different countries and how they were, and different rulers, and what made somebody a good king versus what didn’t, as well as the fickleness of the people who were ruled over.
This is yet another time where I wish good reads had 10 stars because five stars is just not doing it for me
If this was a one to 10 scale, I’d give it a 7.5. I think it’s an interesting book but if I could change anything, I’d like to have gotten into the heads of a few of the characters more and know them a little better and know their motivations.
That includes Jezebel‘s husband and her children. And of course, E.
The best things about the book, are how quickly you get engrossed in it, and how visually stunning everything from the cover to the words are. This is one book of historical fiction that I think a lot of people will enjoy.
― Megan Barnard, Jezebel
Wow.
This was some book. As you may have guessed from the title, it’s a reimagining of the story of Jezebel.
I went into this, really not knowing much. I was familiar with some aspects of the original story, but I had forgotten a lot of it.
Much of it came back to me as I was reading but there are still things that I didn’t know and though this is a reimagining, the names are still authentic.
This is one where there’s so much to say. First of all, is this not one of the most stunning book covers you’ve ever seen? I mean I could just stare at it for hours, that’s how beautiful it is.
I loved the visual element, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to look at the sea again without thinking about glimmering blue glass.
Jezebel herself was reimagined here as a fiery and somewhat haughty Lady.
She’s born, thinking herself a goddess through many of her childhood years until her father is forced to tell her A brutal truth.
That truth is that her name will not be remembered or be written about because she is a woman and can never be king.
Of course, Jezebel does not accept this. She is fiery and strong-willed, and determined to go down in history as a great queen.
Now here’s where things get tricky. I didn’t like Jezebel all that much through most of the book. I felt frustration trying to connect to her. I realize that she was not written necessarily to be likable, but it was really tough for me not to recoil at some of her decisions.
There are going to be spoilers here.
SPOILERS:
Elijah Was so evil.. Now I know this was a reimagining and I readily admit I don’t know the true story in-depth as I said, I know a few snippets, but I learned them when I was very young so I just was stunned at how much he changed In this book so quickly.
I am going to be referring to him as E. throughout the review because his name is so hard to spell
If there was one thing I would say about the book, it’s that I really wanted to know more in depth how E. could go from a kind and tenderhearted scribe to an absolutely evil monster lunatic who murders priestesses.
I was very frustrated continually by his character. I mean, I realize that he claimed to be anointed by his God, but he was also saying this God did not like cruelty, and some of the things E. Did were beyond cruel, and into the sadistic.
The ending left me a little confused as I felt like it was rushed with two of Jezebel son’s dying one after the other very quickly.
This book is also unbelievably sad, and it’s a book where you’re not gonna feel satisfied at the end by anything as it seems that all the good hearted people are dead, and all the evil people get away with things.
I mean, I know that many books have sad endings, but damn, this was really really, really sad! I didn’t feel satisfied by anything when I finished the book.
So it’s a tough book to rate. For those who enjoy historical fiction and re-imaginings I have no doubt you’ll enjoy this book. I did despite the fact that I had a few minor complaints as I wrote above, I am glad I read it.
I think it’s also a good book to read if you are a history buff. Even if it’s a reimagining, you will learn a lot about different countries and how they were, and different rulers, and what made somebody a good king versus what didn’t, as well as the fickleness of the people who were ruled over.
This is yet another time where I wish good reads had 10 stars because five stars is just not doing it for me
If this was a one to 10 scale, I’d give it a 7.5. I think it’s an interesting book but if I could change anything, I’d like to have gotten into the heads of a few of the characters more and know them a little better and know their motivations.
That includes Jezebel‘s husband and her children. And of course, E.
The best things about the book, are how quickly you get engrossed in it, and how visually stunning everything from the cover to the words are. This is one book of historical fiction that I think a lot of people will enjoy.
August 30, 2023
It would’ve been one thing to redeem a historic villain. It’s another thing entirely to pervert a historic hero. To write a story wherein Elijah not only slept with Jezebel but was nothing more than an embittered ex is disgusting.
Way to offend both Jews and Christians.
Way to offend both Jews and Christians.
July 28, 2023
This book was the final nail in the coffin in which I buried my religion.
I loved every page. This take on a villain was so well done. Was she actually a villain? No. She was a woman with power, who held power better than the men around her. Men tend not to like that.
I loved how complex Jezebel was. She tried to be the best of men, while embodying the best of women. She did great things for her kingdom, but as men do, she lost herself in power and vanity. She couldn't let things be. She had to build more, do more.
She did evil things. She killed people. But so did the men around her. The men, whose sins were forgiven, glossed over for the good they did. While she did more than them, helped more people, brought more to the country than any of them. I'm not excusing any of the evil she did. But I won't forgive the men of their sins, either.
I've loved the trend of retelling Greek myths through feminine and feminist eyes, but reading a biblical tale, one that through my childhood was used to villainize ALL women, was a truly healing experience. The bible was fact to me my whole life. Inerrant. I've thankfully healed from those false views. Reading the greek myths through women's eyes is amazing, but reading a story that was once real to me, from the woman's perspective, the strong woman who was wrongly villainized, healed holes in my soul that I didn't realize were there. Here's to hoping this trend continues, I am absolutely living for it.
I loved every page. This take on a villain was so well done. Was she actually a villain? No. She was a woman with power, who held power better than the men around her. Men tend not to like that.
I loved how complex Jezebel was. She tried to be the best of men, while embodying the best of women. She did great things for her kingdom, but as men do, she lost herself in power and vanity. She couldn't let things be. She had to build more, do more.
She did evil things. She killed people. But so did the men around her. The men, whose sins were forgiven, glossed over for the good they did. While she did more than them, helped more people, brought more to the country than any of them. I'm not excusing any of the evil she did. But I won't forgive the men of their sins, either.
I've loved the trend of retelling Greek myths through feminine and feminist eyes, but reading a biblical tale, one that through my childhood was used to villainize ALL women, was a truly healing experience. The bible was fact to me my whole life. Inerrant. I've thankfully healed from those false views. Reading the greek myths through women's eyes is amazing, but reading a story that was once real to me, from the woman's perspective, the strong woman who was wrongly villainized, healed holes in my soul that I didn't realize were there. Here's to hoping this trend continues, I am absolutely living for it.
April 23, 2024
“In the end, though, love and fear were not so different. If I could not have one, at least I would have the other.”
👑 📜 🪔
Sensual and powerful, Jezebel is a captivating, lyrical debut about an ambitious woman who refused to be forgotten, reimagining an infamous queen's story in exquisite detail.
When Jezebel discovers she cannot be a king like her father merely because she is a woman, she pledges never to serve as someone's ornamental bride, nameless and omitted from history. Following the rise and fall of her legacy, from beloved queen to heretic harlot, we see Jezebel reimagined as a symbol of legendary, feminist rage. There is a multifaceted analysis of power, misogyny, feminine wrath, religious zeal, and how they all intersect in a catastrophic way.
Jezebel, like so many powerful women, is adored, feared, and despised, particularly by the men she governs.
Jezebel is a gorgeous, resounding ode to women, and all those who long and deserve to be heard.
👑 📜 🪔
Sensual and powerful, Jezebel is a captivating, lyrical debut about an ambitious woman who refused to be forgotten, reimagining an infamous queen's story in exquisite detail.
When Jezebel discovers she cannot be a king like her father merely because she is a woman, she pledges never to serve as someone's ornamental bride, nameless and omitted from history. Following the rise and fall of her legacy, from beloved queen to heretic harlot, we see Jezebel reimagined as a symbol of legendary, feminist rage. There is a multifaceted analysis of power, misogyny, feminine wrath, religious zeal, and how they all intersect in a catastrophic way.
Jezebel, like so many powerful women, is adored, feared, and despised, particularly by the men she governs.
Jezebel is a gorgeous, resounding ode to women, and all those who long and deserve to be heard.
Read
October 19, 2023DNF I can't give any stars ⭐ for this one as I never got passed chapter 10.
It just wasn't for me.
Happy Reading 📙📚📖📚📓📗📘📒📓📚📙📕📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📖
It just wasn't for me.
Happy Reading 📙📚📖📚📓📗📘📒📓📚📙📕📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📖
April 26, 2023
Jezebel surprised me. This was out of my normal reading comfort zone, but I wanted to broaden my horizons. Growing up with a religious background, I am familiar with the story. This retelling was the most enjoyable read I have had this year. The writing was absolutely beautiful, the pacing kept me engaged, and it had a fascinating interpretation of the characters.
This is a wonderful story with daring imagination. The fact that this is one of my favorite books and it has zero dragons astounds me.
This is a wonderful story with daring imagination. The fact that this is one of my favorite books and it has zero dragons astounds me.
August 10, 2023
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
This was such a well-done novel! I am the first to admit that I knew next to nothing about the historical figure of Jezebel so I was very interested in picking up this historical fiction story. Sure, I have heard the name thrown around in a derogatory manner during my lifetime but I knew nothing about the woman behind the name. I was quickly pulled into this story of a strong and resilient woman.
Jezebel could be tough, even brutal, at times but I do feel that she did what she thought would strengthen her country. She doesn’t always do what is right but it is apparent just how much she cares. The story was bleak at times and exciting at others. She was very concerned with leaving a legacy so that her name would be remembered. This story takes us from Jezebel’s childhood through middle age and I enjoyed watching her grow and change over the course of the story.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that Perdita Weeks did a phenomenal job with this story. I believe that this was the first time that I have had the chance to listen to this narrator’s work and I must say that she was the perfect choice to bring Jezebel’s story to life. I found her voice to be very pleasant and wanted to listen to this story for hours at a time. I am certain that her performance added to my overall enjoyment.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to others. I found this to be a very entertaining story that kept me glued to my headphones. The writing was spectacular so I could easily see myself picking up more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Penguin Books and Penguin Random House Audio.
This was such a well-done novel! I am the first to admit that I knew next to nothing about the historical figure of Jezebel so I was very interested in picking up this historical fiction story. Sure, I have heard the name thrown around in a derogatory manner during my lifetime but I knew nothing about the woman behind the name. I was quickly pulled into this story of a strong and resilient woman.
Jezebel could be tough, even brutal, at times but I do feel that she did what she thought would strengthen her country. She doesn’t always do what is right but it is apparent just how much she cares. The story was bleak at times and exciting at others. She was very concerned with leaving a legacy so that her name would be remembered. This story takes us from Jezebel’s childhood through middle age and I enjoyed watching her grow and change over the course of the story.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that Perdita Weeks did a phenomenal job with this story. I believe that this was the first time that I have had the chance to listen to this narrator’s work and I must say that she was the perfect choice to bring Jezebel’s story to life. I found her voice to be very pleasant and wanted to listen to this story for hours at a time. I am certain that her performance added to my overall enjoyment.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to others. I found this to be a very entertaining story that kept me glued to my headphones. The writing was spectacular so I could easily see myself picking up more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Penguin Books and Penguin Random House Audio.
June 15, 2023
An interesting retelling of this age old story. While I have enjoyed other adaptions of ancient tales, I needed more from this. Women have often been villainized in ancient literature for being strong, independent, and for following their aspirations. Although with this story by the end, I am still not sure if this book did Jezebel any justice.
August 9, 2023
Jews for Jezebel, justice for Jezebel!!!! I love a classic myth or legend told from the woman’s perspective, and this book DELIVERED. It is another classic tale of an independent woman maligned by a jealous ex boyfriend who actually never thought she was that hot anyway and she’ll never find anyone who treats her as good as he did.
Despite being the protagonist (and one I was rooting for!) I found Jezebel’s character to be delightfully complex (her reputation didn’t come from thin air tbh). She is angry, she is proud, she is loving, she is cruel, and, above all, she wants to build a legacy. Luckily, the author doesn’t try to sell this as a girl-power story, but rather the story of one woman who wanted power (and was maybe obsessed by power?) in a time when women were not granted any without a fight. All of the characters, even minor ones, felt very fleshed out and human.
My one critique of this book is that the passion between Jezebel and Elijah (not a spoiler! It’s on the back cover!) came on so suddenly that it wasn’t really believable. She seems to find him kind of annoying when they first meet, then they start becoming friends, and all of a sudden they’re in LOVE??? Makes sense the way that relationship turned out. That said, I was pleasantly surprised by their final meeting; in a comparatively short passage, the author nearly fully redeemed a character I swore to hate until the ends of the earth.
5 stars for Queen Jezebel!!!!
Despite being the protagonist (and one I was rooting for!) I found Jezebel’s character to be delightfully complex (her reputation didn’t come from thin air tbh). She is angry, she is proud, she is loving, she is cruel, and, above all, she wants to build a legacy. Luckily, the author doesn’t try to sell this as a girl-power story, but rather the story of one woman who wanted power (and was maybe obsessed by power?) in a time when women were not granted any without a fight. All of the characters, even minor ones, felt very fleshed out and human.
My one critique of this book is that the passion between Jezebel and Elijah (not a spoiler! It’s on the back cover!) came on so suddenly that it wasn’t really believable. She seems to find him kind of annoying when they first meet, then they start becoming friends, and all of a sudden they’re in LOVE??? Makes sense the way that relationship turned out. That said, I was pleasantly surprised by their final meeting; in a comparatively short passage, the author nearly fully redeemed a character I swore to hate until the ends of the earth.
5 stars for Queen Jezebel!!!!
June 7, 2023
"Harlot. Witch. Or nothing."
You think you know her story. But do you know only what men have spoken of her? Who writes the histories? Whose name is given credit for the good and whose for the bad? Jezebel wants power and to be remembered, and what bigger sin could a woman commit? Any evil the men around her do, must have been under her influence. There is such a layered exploration of power, misogyny, feminine rage, religious fervor, and how they all come together in a devastating way. This plays out like a Greek tragedy, for which you already know the ending, and yet are still on the edge of your seat to see how it ends and how the characters' choices seal their fates.
This was such a powerful, compelling, and well-written book. I'd definitely recommend it.
4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
You think you know her story. But do you know only what men have spoken of her? Who writes the histories? Whose name is given credit for the good and whose for the bad? Jezebel wants power and to be remembered, and what bigger sin could a woman commit? Any evil the men around her do, must have been under her influence. There is such a layered exploration of power, misogyny, feminine rage, religious fervor, and how they all come together in a devastating way. This plays out like a Greek tragedy, for which you already know the ending, and yet are still on the edge of your seat to see how it ends and how the characters' choices seal their fates.
This was such a powerful, compelling, and well-written book. I'd definitely recommend it.
4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2023
~2.5 stars
so much filler and was a bit too slow for me. felt very surface level and underdeveloped, like you could tell this was a debut, but i did like the writing! these mythology books have not been hitting lately 😔
so much filler and was a bit too slow for me. felt very surface level and underdeveloped, like you could tell this was a debut, but i did like the writing! these mythology books have not been hitting lately 😔
October 5, 2025
For fans of retellings about women in history. I do wish there would have been an author’s note at the end that let us know what was based in fact and what was hypothetical/liberties taken by the author.
August 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this feminist reimagining of Jezebel's story!! It was great on audio narrated by Perdita Weeks and perfect for fans of books like Madeline Miller's Circe or any of the recent slew of books featuring women from Greek mythology and history whose voices have often been neglected or silenced.
This one provided a fascinating look at a 9th century Queen of Israel and the way her actions have been vilified over the years. The book features strong female friendships, motherhood struggles and a complicated marital relationship. Highly recommended on audio and I LOVED this cover too!
This one provided a fascinating look at a 9th century Queen of Israel and the way her actions have been vilified over the years. The book features strong female friendships, motherhood struggles and a complicated marital relationship. Highly recommended on audio and I LOVED this cover too!
May 2, 2023
I just finished this one and am still digesting it. My first thought after finishing it - that was a really good fucking book. Throughout my reading I found myself wanting to compare it to the Old Testament Christian Bible (OT) passages. This is a thoughtful, masterful, and just really fucking good story of Jezebel that turns the traditional version we know on its face.
Jezebel as told by Megan Barnard is humanizing and is reminiscent of Madeline Miller’s work, only I think I liked this more due to the history I have with the Christian faith. I’m so accustomed to the story of Jezebel the harlot, not Jezebel the woman, girl, baby, and every iteration those phases of life encompass. I appreciate the sensitivity of the author to the characters of the story - there was only one that I walked away from truly despising, and it wasn’t Jezebel or any of those expected to be evil from reading the OT.
At this point, I’m left with a deeper respect of notion that we are all the villain to someone, and hero to another. People can vacillate in their opinions and beliefs due to the most minute adjustment in their lives, for better or worse, and in very extreme measures. It is reminiscent of another passage from the OT - there is nothing new under the sun. This happens today, and Jezebel is a timely book in today’s social and political climate.
Mandatory disclaimer - I received an ARC courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. The opinions are entirely my own. I will be purchasing this title because it is that fucking good. I don’t even normally use profanity in public forums, but frankly, Jezebel deserves no less than the best and most impolite of adjectives.
I really loved this book. I may write more later.
Jezebel as told by Megan Barnard is humanizing and is reminiscent of Madeline Miller’s work, only I think I liked this more due to the history I have with the Christian faith. I’m so accustomed to the story of Jezebel the harlot, not Jezebel the woman, girl, baby, and every iteration those phases of life encompass. I appreciate the sensitivity of the author to the characters of the story - there was only one that I walked away from truly despising, and it wasn’t Jezebel or any of those expected to be evil from reading the OT.
At this point, I’m left with a deeper respect of notion that we are all the villain to someone, and hero to another. People can vacillate in their opinions and beliefs due to the most minute adjustment in their lives, for better or worse, and in very extreme measures. It is reminiscent of another passage from the OT - there is nothing new under the sun. This happens today, and Jezebel is a timely book in today’s social and political climate.
Mandatory disclaimer - I received an ARC courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. The opinions are entirely my own. I will be purchasing this title because it is that fucking good. I don’t even normally use profanity in public forums, but frankly, Jezebel deserves no less than the best and most impolite of adjectives.
I really loved this book. I may write more later.
August 27, 2023
"Once, before her name was a slur, there was a woman called Jezebel. Mostly, this is for her."
To start out, I am not here to debate religious beliefs - only to discuss a historical fiction/mythology retelling book that I loved and a character that I deeply enjoyed spending time with. Growing up, I was always curious about the women in the bible and how they never seemed to have their stories told - especially since they are rarely humanized and instead placed into camps of "good" or "evil" in order to teach morality lessons. Jezebel was one such figure that I was always intrigued by, a Queen allegedly so corrupt that her name is used as a slur against women. I knew there had to be something else there, a powerful woman that was demonized in her time for seeking power. Megan Barnard must have had a similar train of thought.
Jezebel is often compared to other mythological retellings like Circe or Ariadne - and while I agree that it just as expertly retells the story of a woman seemingly forgotten or villainized in their original works. However, Barnard's novel is in its own league. It perfectly places the reader into the biblical world (while also paying homage to other religions at the time) as well as expertly discusses the hypocrisy and lack of tolerance between the different groups. I enjoyed this book because it breathed life into the ancient world and the story and moved at a great pace. Barnard's writing is gorgeous and conveys Jezebel so well. You go in knowing how her story will end and what occurred in the original story, but this book grips you close and pulls you through, shattering expectations and preconceived notions.
My favorite part of the story had to be the nominal character, Queen Jezebel herself. I love that Barnard showed the many shades of her - the good and the bad, and this humanized her from a villainous witch to an ambitious and cunning young woman seeking to be remembered, wanting to keep her religion in a world she had been forced into. Jezebel isn't a hero or a villain. She is human. Flawed. Seeking power in a world where a woman couldn't without her story and reputation being destroyed. Her feminine rage was perfectly written and portrayed with excellence. Watching her fight to be remembered like a King who brought her land into greatness was an absolute pleasure as she was so nuanced and driven. The idea that this book was just that, her story on her own terms, was gripping.
If you are interested in a retelling that re-centers the story on the woman's perspective, I highly recommend this book for you. One of my favorite reads of the year.
"In the days of kings, there was Jezebel."
To start out, I am not here to debate religious beliefs - only to discuss a historical fiction/mythology retelling book that I loved and a character that I deeply enjoyed spending time with. Growing up, I was always curious about the women in the bible and how they never seemed to have their stories told - especially since they are rarely humanized and instead placed into camps of "good" or "evil" in order to teach morality lessons. Jezebel was one such figure that I was always intrigued by, a Queen allegedly so corrupt that her name is used as a slur against women. I knew there had to be something else there, a powerful woman that was demonized in her time for seeking power. Megan Barnard must have had a similar train of thought.
Jezebel is often compared to other mythological retellings like Circe or Ariadne - and while I agree that it just as expertly retells the story of a woman seemingly forgotten or villainized in their original works. However, Barnard's novel is in its own league. It perfectly places the reader into the biblical world (while also paying homage to other religions at the time) as well as expertly discusses the hypocrisy and lack of tolerance between the different groups. I enjoyed this book because it breathed life into the ancient world and the story and moved at a great pace. Barnard's writing is gorgeous and conveys Jezebel so well. You go in knowing how her story will end and what occurred in the original story, but this book grips you close and pulls you through, shattering expectations and preconceived notions.
My favorite part of the story had to be the nominal character, Queen Jezebel herself. I love that Barnard showed the many shades of her - the good and the bad, and this humanized her from a villainous witch to an ambitious and cunning young woman seeking to be remembered, wanting to keep her religion in a world she had been forced into. Jezebel isn't a hero or a villain. She is human. Flawed. Seeking power in a world where a woman couldn't without her story and reputation being destroyed. Her feminine rage was perfectly written and portrayed with excellence. Watching her fight to be remembered like a King who brought her land into greatness was an absolute pleasure as she was so nuanced and driven. The idea that this book was just that, her story on her own terms, was gripping.
If you are interested in a retelling that re-centers the story on the woman's perspective, I highly recommend this book for you. One of my favorite reads of the year.
"In the days of kings, there was Jezebel."
July 6, 2023
I was so excited for this book. I love retellings of historical or mythological characters - especially those about women who are often overlooked or made to look awful with one sided stories. Unfortunately, this just didn't work for me.
If you're familiar with the Biblical story of Jezebel, there isn't a lot of room in this one to see new details. I appreciated learning more about why she may have wanted to take the actions she did. But some storylines were very predictable (for example, what happens with Elijah). The plagues were interesting in how people reacted and the impact they had.
Part III felt rushed and disjointed. The ending made me sad because it felt like such a let down of the independent Jezebel character we've seen throughout the book.
Ultimately, not my favorite of this genre.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
If you're familiar with the Biblical story of Jezebel, there isn't a lot of room in this one to see new details. I appreciated learning more about why she may have wanted to take the actions she did. But some storylines were very predictable (for example, what happens with Elijah). The plagues were interesting in how people reacted and the impact they had.
Part III felt rushed and disjointed. The ending made me sad because it felt like such a let down of the independent Jezebel character we've seen throughout the book.
Ultimately, not my favorite of this genre.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
June 26, 2023
**ARC provided by the publisher for review consideration. All thought are my own.**
I'm all about feminist redemption arcs for historically maligned characters, and my previous theologian self was intrigued by this story of Jezebel from her own POV.
This book aspires to be a cross between Anita Diamant's The Red Tent and Madeline Miller's Circe, but didn't feel quite as well researched. It DID inspire me to do some more reading on the infamous Jezebel, though.
Recommended for historical fiction (ancient) lovers and possibly fans of fractured fairytales
I'm all about feminist redemption arcs for historically maligned characters, and my previous theologian self was intrigued by this story of Jezebel from her own POV.
This book aspires to be a cross between Anita Diamant's The Red Tent and Madeline Miller's Circe, but didn't feel quite as well researched. It DID inspire me to do some more reading on the infamous Jezebel, though.
Recommended for historical fiction (ancient) lovers and possibly fans of fractured fairytales
December 7, 2023
I think maybe Jezebel's image in my head, her story, will always mean so much to me and will be something I think about regularly. As I child, I grew up hearing of the evil queen Jezebel and her misdeeds, and it is a true shame that I never stopped before this book to think "why is Jezebel actually evil?" What did she do that was worse than any of the prophets, any of the kings, anyone worth mentioning at all in the old testament? And even if I had not read this book, I knew my favor would fall with Jezebel, the woman vilified by millions across the world. But I did read the book, and consequently, I am now without a shadow of a doubt a Jezebel apologist. Not only, though, was the story Megan told to tell beautiful, but her writing also definitely did the tale justice. My attention was rapt throughout the book, and even though I knew the story (and ending) well, the emotions I felt were still just as powerful as if I were reading the tale for the first time. I think the message of this story is one of importance, something to be heard by those theistic and nontheistic alike. Thank you, Megan, for giving us this story.
August 5, 2023
I’m still really in my feelings about what it means to be a woman after seeing the Barbie movie last week, so this book could not have been more timely for me.
Jezebel, by Megan Barnard, is a retelling of the famous character from the bible. Take everything you thought you knew about Jezebel and throw it out the window! The story begins with Jezebel as a young child and how she came into the world fierce and angry. She is very strong in her faith and belief in her gods. As a royal princess, she is married off at a young age to the prince of Israel despite her wishes (as one does.) The prince and those who live in Israel believe in only one god, and this is a constant battle throughout the book. Despite being desperate for her island home of Tyre, Jezebel does her best to make Israel her home and see it prosper. She does this while fighting through misogyny and patriarchy. She often goes too far due to her religious beliefs and her experience growing up as the daughter of a king who killed to take his own throne. The story ends with how it came to be that she was known as a harlot. I keep hearing, “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story,” in my head and will probably hear it for days.
I am not religious and consider myself an atheist, but for some reason I am a sucker for books like this. However, I will say the religious fervor in this book from both the Tyrians and the Israelites had me rolling my eyes often. The lengths people will go to in the name of religions is as old as time, clearly, and also not something I will ever understand. Jezebel was a very complicated character, indeed. If you like books like The Red Tent or The Book of Longings, you will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Books for the ARC.
Jezebel, by Megan Barnard, is a retelling of the famous character from the bible. Take everything you thought you knew about Jezebel and throw it out the window! The story begins with Jezebel as a young child and how she came into the world fierce and angry. She is very strong in her faith and belief in her gods. As a royal princess, she is married off at a young age to the prince of Israel despite her wishes (as one does.) The prince and those who live in Israel believe in only one god, and this is a constant battle throughout the book. Despite being desperate for her island home of Tyre, Jezebel does her best to make Israel her home and see it prosper. She does this while fighting through misogyny and patriarchy. She often goes too far due to her religious beliefs and her experience growing up as the daughter of a king who killed to take his own throne. The story ends with how it came to be that she was known as a harlot. I keep hearing, “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story,” in my head and will probably hear it for days.
I am not religious and consider myself an atheist, but for some reason I am a sucker for books like this. However, I will say the religious fervor in this book from both the Tyrians and the Israelites had me rolling my eyes often. The lengths people will go to in the name of religions is as old as time, clearly, and also not something I will ever understand. Jezebel was a very complicated character, indeed. If you like books like The Red Tent or The Book of Longings, you will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Books for the ARC.
August 30, 2023
“if they knew the story now, they would say i had planned it to be so. that from the the moment i had seen him i had wanted him. they would say i was wily as a serpent, a wolf in sheep’s clothing…..but i remember the truth of that time. i remember a woman, barely more than a girl, who took the comfort she needed.”
August 14, 2024
A pretty interesting twist on the biblical story! I liked the characterization of Jezebel here as someone who we can be sympathetic to but still not really a good person. Her relationship with Elijah was definitely the stand out in this story, and his characterization was pretty damn masterful. In some ways though this was a bit too much like the traditional story. Like the Bible, there's really nothing here on the average Israelite and their lives, the focus is entirely on the aristocracy and were repeatedly told that Israel is very different from Tyre but beyond religion we don't really see that. I wish Barnard had dug more into the current archaeology of the era and utilized the really fascinating new views we have. Being a history nerd I was also REALLY bothered by the repeated references to Caeserea, which did not exist until at least 400 years after these events and did not have it's name until 700 years after. I know that were working with mythologized history here but this wouldn't have been difficult AT ALL to change.
Despite these critiques, I had fun with this one. I read it quickly and enjoyed it and if you like these feminist themed myth retellings them I'm sure you'll enjoy this one
Despite these critiques, I had fun with this one. I read it quickly and enjoyed it and if you like these feminist themed myth retellings them I'm sure you'll enjoy this one
September 22, 2023
This is a retelling of the story of Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab, the Queen of Israel that turned the people to foreign gods and murdered Jewish prophets and was labeled a harlot by Elijah. The book tells a different version of the story, not one where Jezebel is innocent, but one where her hubris is explained with more complexity.
I thought the writing was compelling and Jezebel's character and hubris -- striving above all else to have her name recorded in the book of kings, the depth of her anger and even bloodlust when her rage would boil over -- was well done.
I did feel weird about how Elijah was portrayed as a petty, jealous ex. I know we are getting the story through Jezebel's eyes and she would have hated him deeply, so it makes sense. But it didn't really sit right with me. I guess feel like giving Jezebel more complexity could have been accomplished without simplifying Elijah.
3.5 stars
I thought the writing was compelling and Jezebel's character and hubris -- striving above all else to have her name recorded in the book of kings, the depth of her anger and even bloodlust when her rage would boil over -- was well done.
I did feel weird about how Elijah was portrayed as a petty, jealous ex. I know we are getting the story through Jezebel's eyes and she would have hated him deeply, so it makes sense. But it didn't really sit right with me. I guess feel like giving Jezebel more complexity could have been accomplished without simplifying Elijah.
3.5 stars
September 29, 2023
Historical Fiction!
More like historical falsification and fraud!
Setting aside the desperate attempts of the author to turn a well known, historically documented monster (Jezebel) into something even holier than mother Teresa, this novel is full of oxymorons and contradictions.
A cop out almost on every page to justify the horrific acts of Jezebel; feed the orphans and the hungry, and good job throwing in the bit about the hungry dog to try and gather readers’ sympathies.
Apparently; holiness, purity and uprightness of prophets and people like Elijah severely irritate and hurt the conscience of some.
Seriously, I wish I’d read more about the author before wasting money on this book.
The author has a clear agenda anti-God, and seems to just have wanted to cash in on the concepts that honestly litter this current generation.
Enough is enough with this propaganda!
Rant over!
More like historical falsification and fraud!
Setting aside the desperate attempts of the author to turn a well known, historically documented monster (Jezebel) into something even holier than mother Teresa, this novel is full of oxymorons and contradictions.
A cop out almost on every page to justify the horrific acts of Jezebel; feed the orphans and the hungry, and good job throwing in the bit about the hungry dog to try and gather readers’ sympathies.
Apparently; holiness, purity and uprightness of prophets and people like Elijah severely irritate and hurt the conscience of some.
Seriously, I wish I’d read more about the author before wasting money on this book.
The author has a clear agenda anti-God, and seems to just have wanted to cash in on the concepts that honestly litter this current generation.
Enough is enough with this propaganda!
Rant over!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2024
Starting like a Disney movie and rife with trope-y, half-constructed characters, Barnard's novel did not immediately strike me as particularly good. Her prose is weak, rocky in the beginning, and the dialogue stiff and inflexible.
However, the plot finds its stride somewhere in the middle and moves pleasantly, if still shakily, along until the end. I wasn't always impressed with the transitions or the world-building—space itself seemed to shift in some of her descriptions, making me think Barnard may not have a good idea of where things take place—but I did find it an entertaining, albeit cliché, story overall.
Barnard's prose, too, evolves like the plot, and becomes much stronger, more sure of itself as the novel advances. Her voice is clearer, cleaner as Jezebel ages and Israel changes.
By the end, I had to admit it wasn't a bad book.
However, the plot finds its stride somewhere in the middle and moves pleasantly, if still shakily, along until the end. I wasn't always impressed with the transitions or the world-building—space itself seemed to shift in some of her descriptions, making me think Barnard may not have a good idea of where things take place—but I did find it an entertaining, albeit cliché, story overall.
Barnard's prose, too, evolves like the plot, and becomes much stronger, more sure of itself as the novel advances. Her voice is clearer, cleaner as Jezebel ages and Israel changes.
By the end, I had to admit it wasn't a bad book.
June 14, 2023
This was an interesting story, especially since I didn't know the biblical story. Unlike others, I didn't know where the story was going or the relevance of Elijah. I found the story interesting. I liked the dual perspective of multiple faiths and how Jezebel pushed against, what she felt, was a jealous god. I also liked learning about the temples and places of worship. I found the droughts and plagues interesting to read about in the moment instead of in history. But, ultimately, I was let down by the story. The ending left me so sad.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
April 1, 2025
Angry, full of voice and a cast of strong characters. With less than 300 pages, Barnard crafted a powerful novel and an unforgettable main character. I’ll be looking for more by this author. This was an impressive, introspective look at one of the most infamous women in history. Jezebel is more than the name she left behind, more than the legend decided about her actions and desires. She's complicated and driven - her need to leave a mark on history is a core part of who she is, and that impacts her actions.
April 27, 2023
A spellbinding retelling, Jezebel belongs on the shelf with Haynes and Miller. I knew from the first page that Megan Barnard had created something special- a retelling of the biblical Jezebel with timeless themes of the role of women, responsibilities of power and influence, and the consequences of underestimating how far people will go for their beliefs. Beautifully written and immensely satisfying, this is everything I want in a book.
August 18, 2023
This was so good!! I do see the Circe comparisons but I'd actually liken this more to Kaikeyi, which I loved. I didn't know a single thing about Jezebel except the way that we currently use the word Jezebel as an insult - so I learned a ton from this story and I love seeing a sympathetic interpretation of a historically reviled woman.
Great writing too!!
Great writing too!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 386 reviews