I have enjoyed many of Moore’s historical novels based on scriptural prophets, so even though I didn’t know much about Deborah, I was excited to read her story. The book has two parts. In the first part (the part that I enjoyed most) we meet Deborah and her family and learn of their struggles. Deborah showed her strength and courage, falls in love and becomes the next Judge in Israel. The second half of the book jumps forward 15 years and sets things up for battle. This part moved quite a bit slower for me, which I realize sounds funny what with some intense moments regarding a pending battle, but it didn’t pull me in as much as the first half (except for the part about Jael-hard to not be pulled in by that). Part of this may have to do with a lot more focus on another character, Barak. He was important but not who I was really wanting to focus on.

As usual with Moore’s historical novels, I came away with a desire to read Deborah’s story directly from the Bible. Moore helps readers get a feel for the people behind the Biblical story. Yes, it’s fiction, but the scriptural characters are definitely more humanized when considering their families and other struggles they may have had.

I love when authors expound on the people in the scriptures! Knowing what their lives might have been like and adding in everyday details helps me envision more fully the person. When I then turn back to the scriptures and read their accounts I can have a greater understanding. I adore that this author has chosen to write about some of the women from the scriptures. Their stories give me hope and courage to live my life with greater faith. Study the life of Deborah both in this book and in the scriptures.

Note of Interest- At the Facebook Launch for this book I had a chance to ask the author, "How do you know what kinds of fictional characteristics to add in while keeping the book pretty authentic?"

Her answer was, "The first thing I have to decide is what her family structure is like, and what her father does for a living. Then how does she fit into the family, what are her relationships? And what's her age starting the story out. Is she married? Or will there be a romance? Then I look at her cultural and era and religious beliefs that will define a lot of how she'll react to things and how she'll spend her days. Since I decided that her father lives on the outskirts of the village and raises flocks, she'd have a nomad type lifestyle, which also defines her daily tasks and her knowledge of the world beyond her."

I am truly grateful for H.B. Moore's studies and her talent for writing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

I have read many of the historical fiction books by this author and have enjoyed each and everyone of them. Having said that, this is my favorite one by far. The author's writing style is such that you can picture things, in your mind's eye, that are happening which brings a new dimension to the book reading experience. Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for providing this book in exchange for my honest review.

An interesting look at life during the Bible times. I really enjoyed this story about Deborah and the challenges she had to face during this period in history. The plot is well thought out even though there is little history about Deborah to go on. I felt like I was transported back to Old Testament times and watching the story unfold.

I received a free digital copy of this book. All thoughts above are my own.

Excellent writing! The story captured me from the beginning. It was hard to take breaks-it’s always fascinating to me to read of stories set in biblical times. Ms Moore has a true talent for sharing fantastic history in her novels!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

Deborah, a shepherdess, lives a fairly simple life—but that is turned upside down when encounters with the Canaanites lead her, as well as others, to realize that God is working in her life, for her sake and for the sake of His people. Although she is told by the Third Judge of Israel that she will be the next judge of Israel, when that becomes reality, Deborah must summon all her faith to face the challenges ahead, as the time has come for her, along with her husband’s cousin, Barak, who has been training the Israelites in battle, to lead the Israelites against the Canaanites to end their oppression.
I always enjoy reading H.B. Moore’s Biblical fiction because they make me think about people from the Bible in a totally different way. While this is a work of fiction, the setting is highly researched and it really brings to life how the ancient Israelites lived.
The plot of this book is really interesting—the first part focuses a lot on Deborah and her future husband, Lapidoth, and their love story, while setting the stage for the eventual battle between the Israelites and Canaanites, while the second part moves fifteen years ahead to when Deborah becomes the Judge of Israel and the imminent battle looms large. I thought both parts were really interesting—I loved the romance of the first part but also really liked seeing how Lapi continued to believe in and support Deborah in her sacred calling in the second part. I also liked Barak’s character and seeing his worries, which were so realistic, as he was supposed to lead the Israelites, and how he had to push through them. This was just a pleasure to read!
I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I have read a few books by HB Moore and this is the first biblical fiction of hers that I have read. This story starts out introducing us to Deborah a shepherdess as she faces two very different dangerous situations at one time.

Deborah attributes her successes in life to her constant prayers to God. The people (men) around her see her unique gifts and want to protect and help her.

This is not only a story of Deborah and her calling as the fourth judge of Israel but an enduring love story between her and Lapidoth.

HB Moore diligently did her research pertaining to customs and laws of the old testament times. She also helps the reader to understand the plight for the Israelites need to be out from under the Canaanites rule.

I enjoyed reading this biblical fiction! It really helped bring the story of Deborah to life for me.

I was given the opportunity to review this book from Covenant Communications all opinions are my own.

This book is very well written and holds your attention. If you like biblical fiction, you will love this book. The author made the story come to life with her words. Thank you Covenant Communications via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.