Book Review of 'Brave: The Story of Ahinoam' by Mesu Andrews

Happy Wednesday Bookworms!

I hope everyone is having a fantastic week so far. My world is a little discombobulated due to Hurricane Milton heading straight for Tampa Bay, which is where my mom currently lives. Her and my stepdad were able to evacuate further inland and more north, but with how massive and powerful this hurricane is the entire state of Florida is under the radar. My heart goes out to everyone that is in the line of the hurricane, as well as those that are still dealing with the fallout from Hurricane Helene. I can't help but wonder what my mom will come home to and pray for safety for all.

To keep my mind off of all of this insane weather I dove into an amazing series starter that I can't wait to tell you about, so I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Biblical Fiction and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Brave: The Story of Ahinoam by Mesu Andrews hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Brave: The Story of Ahinoam

Series: King David's Brides #1

Author: Mesu Andrews

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Release Date: October 1, 2024

Genre: Biblical Fiction

In the tumultuous world of ancient Israel, Ahinoam--a dagger-wielding Kenite woman--flees her family farm with her unconventional father to join the ragtag band of misfits led by the shepherd-turned-warrior David ben Jesse. As King Saul's treasonous accusations echo through the land, Ahinoam's conviction that David's anointing makes him Yahweh's chosen king propels her on a perilous journey to Moab and back into Judah's unforgiving wilderness, only to encounter more hardship and betrayal.

Amid the challenges, Ahinoam forges an unexpected bond with David's sister and gains respect among David's army through her knowledge of Kenite metalworking. Though some offer friendship, Ahinoam, scarred by past relationships, isolates to avoid more pain and refuses to acknowledge her growing feelings for the renegade king. As Ahinoam's heart grapples for footing, King Saul's army closes in, and Ahinoam must confront the true meaning of love, loyalty, and courage. Is she brave enough to trust new friends and love Israel's next king?

My Review

I am seriously speechless which, if you know me, knows that is a Herculean feat. This tome is truly a masterpiece and shows off the incredible talent of Mesu Andrews.

This was a tougher review for me to write because there are no words to express just how much I enjoyed this novel. The rich history, seeped in Scripture, and the immersive experience are just a few things that tethered me to this book.

I instantly identified with Ahinoam. I admired how her faith was not shaken, even in the direst of circumstances, but that she prayed continually and did what she could do to fight. It’s clear her strength came from the Lord, which is mirrored in David, one of my favorite people from the Bible. It’s clear to see why David was a “man after God’s own heart” and it was easy to see love bearing all things being fleshed out.

I found it fascinating to learn more about David running from Saul and his reasoning for having multiple wives. It’s definitely something that is discussed and is an interesting discussion point and a fact that I have always struggled with.

Psalms that David wrote that were included really brought these Scriptures alive unlike anything I’ve ever read. I’m fairly new to historical Biblical fiction but it is quickly become a favorite genre of mine for reasons like this. I’ve read some of these Psalms countless times and have often pondered what anguish provoked David to pen such words. Now I see these words from a visceral place and not just words on a piece of paper. It’s this raw emotion that truly came alive.

Mesu Andrews is an incredible writer and brings this world and these characters to life. I am very excited to see where this series goes from here.

My Rating: ★★★★★

Also Available

About the Author

Mesu Andrews is a Christy Award-winning, bestselling author of biblical novels and devotional studies, whose deep understanding of and love for God's Word brings the Bible alive for readers. Her heritage as a "spiritual mutt" has given her a strong yearning to both understand and communicate biblical truths in powerful stories that touch the heart, challenge the mind, and transform lives. Mesu lives in Indiana with her husband, Roy, where she stays connected with her readers through newsy emails, blog posts, and social media.

Connect with Mesu by visiting mesuandrews.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Brave: The Story of Ahinoam and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 9, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 16, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!