In the Shadow of Jezebel ~ Review

IN THE SHADOW OF JEZEBEL
A Novel
By Mesu Andrews

Jezebel's influence is spreading through the generations as her daughter Queen Athaliah of Judah manipulates the nation, her son Ahaziah, and her chosen daughter Jehosheba.  Can the shadow of Jezebel's vile and corrupt heart be overshadowed by someone greater?

When the Princess Jehosheba is given in marriage to Yahweh's high priest, how can this be pleasing in the sight of God?  Raised to be a high priestess for Baal, what does she know of these Yahwists with whom she must live and bring to Baal?  And Sheba's first convert Yahweh's new high priest - Jehoiada.  But God has other plans and Sheba may be the convert to Yahweh.

Chosen to be a Queen of Destiny Jehosheba's choice may determine the path of a nation.  But to determine her worth she must first free herself and those she holds dear from the shadow of Jezebel's tyranny.

I like the fact that Sheba's husband isn't perfect and that he struggles to walk with God even as he guides his new wife to an understanding and belief in God.  Sheba's transformation is remarkable, but believable as it takes place over a period of time and isn't immediate.

The hateful, vile manipulations of both Athaliah and Jezebel do nothing in making one feel sympathy for the two.  Everything they do seems suspect and, as is often the case in this book, a means to an even greater evil.  These are two women you don't want to meet!

It is always interesting to read Biblical fiction, to get a glimpse at what might be going on in the minds of these various people.  This was definitely a book that held my interest until the end.  The utter cruelty and immorality involved with the ceremonies of Baal is contrasted with the worship with God. If you are interested in exploring the times and cultures of the Old Testament be sure to pickup a copy of In the Shadow of Jezebel.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher, Revell, in exchange for my honest review.

About:

In a kingdom controlled by cruel and manipulative women, one princess will discover the power of truth and love.
Trained as a priestess in the temple of Baal, Princess Jehosheba strives to please the demanding Queen Athaliah, daughter of Jezebel. But when a mysterious letter from the dead prophet Elijah predicts doom for the royal household, Jehosheba realizes that the dark arts she practices reach far beyond the realm of earthly governments.

Forced to marry Yahweh's high priest in order to further Athaliah and Jezebel's power plays, Jehosheba enters the unfamiliar world of Yahweh's Temple. Can her new husband show her the truth and love she craves? And can Jehosheba overcome her fear and save the family--and the nation--she loves?

With deft skill, Mesu Andrews brings the Old Testament to life, revealing a fascinating story of the power of unconditional love.