A totally gripping story with believable, real, flawed (oh are they EVER) characters, that gave me real insight into so many things - not the least of which is the reign of one of Judah's most evil king: Manasseh. Her approach to this story was refreshing, definitely drawing me in and keeping me engaged. Love the redemption at the end.

Mesu Andrews is one of the few authors who can make 1st century Christianity read like a novel and not like a treatise. I enjoy every one of her books for their very human look at the times and events of such a tumultuous period. Her descriptions give a strong sense of setting and the characters are all well-placed against the historical backdrop.

Mesu Andrew is perhaps one of the best Biblical fiction authors of today. She once again brings the Biblical history period of the prophets and kings to life based on historical and Biblical research. Her Biblical research always is the foundation with historical research adding the details.

Isaiah's Legacy focuses predominantly on King Hezekiah and his Queen, Zibah; his son who becomes King Mannaseh (aka Nasseh) and his Queen Shulle, along with the prophets we read about in Kings and Chronicles. What I found truly interesting in this story is that Mannaseh as well as a couple of other of the royal family from information found in the Bible were quite possibly high functioning autistics. Hezekiah followed the one true God, Yahweh, but his son welcomed all gods from around Judah and turned God's temple into a ediface that promoted any God the people believed in. But God dealt punishment to both Hezekiah and Mannaseh for their evil deeds and eventually brought them both as well as Queen Shulle to a love for God and his people.

Excellent conclusion to this series, and it sums sin up beautifully in this sentence: "Sin is our declaration of independence from the Creator."

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterbrookMultanoma through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Mesu Andrews is a fantastic author, and Isaiah’s Legacy is proof of that. I’m fortunate enough to have the read the bible, and Manasseh’s story in particular. I know how his story goes and ends. Andrews made me forget – and I mean that in a good way. As I was reading this story, I was so engrossed in what was happening that my mind couldn’t concentrate on anything else. Andrews pulled me into Manasseh’s world, into Shulle’s world. I was sitting on the edge of seat wondering where the story would take me next.

One thing I appreciate about Andrews is all the research she does before writing her stories. Not only does she include biblical characters (it is biblical fiction after all), but she includes historical characters. She references things that actually happened during that time, such as rituals and traditions. She makes sure the clothing, the dialogue, and everything about her writing matches the time. And yet somehow it is easy for this modern day reader to read and understand. It just blows my mind!

Speaking of modern day, I love the fact that she gave Manasseh a “modern day” characterization (autism). Somehow it just made me connect with his character more, or it made him more real. Something, I just don’t think I can put it into words exactly. And I loved the fact that he found a friend in Shulle – someone who could comfort him.

Shulle’s character intrigued me. I always saw a ray of light in her, even when she didn’t. She had a good heart, which at times became her downfall (in the world’s eyes anyway). I think she truly did love Nasseh, even though he frightened her at times. And same goes for Nasseh. I do think he truly loved Shulle, even though he did not have the best way of expressing it.

Isaiah’s Legacy is not just my favorite story of Mesu Andrews, it is my favorite biblical fiction novel to date. It is more than just a story. It’s a powerful message that will entice readers to study their bible more, and thank the Lord that we live in the day we do. Thank you Ms. Andrews for once again hitting a homerun!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Loved this book it was a great story and I didn't want to put this book down once I got started. If you are a little confused in the beginning on what's exactly going on keep reading it works itself out after the first couple of chapters. Great Christian Fiction and I'm going to reccommend it to all of my Facebook reading groups!!!

In my Bible, next to the story of King Hezekiah, I have written "Good", as in he was a good king. Next to King Manasseh, Hezekiah's son, I have written "Bad". I knew he did evil in God's sight, but I don't think I had a true concept of how much evil until I read Mesu Andrews' "Isaiah's Legacy". While I know this is a work of fiction, I also know that Ms. Andrews does an amazing amount of research for her books, so if anything, maybe she even tamed this down some.

Manasseh is portrayed as a child locked in his own mind. Shulle, whose father has many of the same tendencies as young Manasseh, is dragged from the safety of her home with her father into the intrigues of the king's palace. Her uncle, Shebna, and his maid, Belit, are the embodiment of evil, and begin Shulle's training immediately to turn her heart away from Yahweh. They see how taken Manasseh is with her and believe that she is the key to turning Judah from the one true God.

As Manasseh takes the throne of Judah, Shebna begins his campaign to rid Judah of Yahwists. As group after group is slaughtered, Manasseh's soul gets darker. It appears that he is beyond redemption, but Isaiah's Legacy doesn't end there, and neither does the biblical story.

So, I have to say there were many places in this book where I cringed for the characters. When Belit takes Shulle - age 12 for crying out loud - to "hunt for her mandrake" and ends up sending her into "The Grove" to be "worshipped" my heart hurt for this innocent girl who only wanted to protect her father from her uncle's evil. Instead, she is drawn into a life that shatters her own innocence. When her "divining" results in the death of the prophet Isaiah, I felt her deep guilt. This is a hard book to read, but it drives home the fact that no one is beyond redemption.

If you enjoy biblical fiction, pick up Isaiah's Legacy. This is actually the sequel to Isaiah's Daughter, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Mesu Andrews brings the biblical characters to life. I highly recommend!

When I settled in to read a story about Judah’s most evil king and his once mentioned wife, I wasn’t sure how I would connect with Manessah and Shulle. I shouldn’t have worried. Mesu Andrews knows how to write characters that draw you in, even if you don’t always agree with their actions and decisions. Manipulation and its far-reaching consequences are big part of this story, but it also explores the powers of forgiveness and love. Andrews really nailed it with this story and I’m looking forward to picking up some of her other books.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I always love the way Mesu Andrews is able to bring the people and the stories of the Bible to life. Beyond wondering how a twelve year old ever managed being king, I'd not previously given Manasseh's story much thought. In some places this book can be difficult for sensitive readers but this is a redemption story not to be missed.

Special thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for an advance copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and these thoughts are my own.

It’s difficult to describe the journey the reader goes through reading this book. It starts out as a journey through the darkness of idolatry and sorcery. There were times I almost wanted to stop reading because it seemed that both Manasseh and his reign were so steeped in evil it was impossible for there to be any redemption. But I know the Biblical account, and I knew Mesu Andrews would tell how the Truth of God’s Word would finally penetrate the darkness that oppressed Manasseh. And I was not disappointed—-the closing chapters of this book were amazing.

The Bible does not give us a pretty story about the wickedness that was part of this king’s reign, and neither did the author of this book. But the truth of God’s goodness and unfailing love is the light that we all need to hold on to in times of great trouble. I was reminded once again that God’s purposes will prevail, even if we do not always see how He is working. So many wonderful lessons from the Bible are brought to life through the characters in this book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Young Shulle is taken from the peaceful life with her loving father, to a world fraught with intrigue and sorcery in Prince Manasseh's court. She finds herself lost and confused drawn away from the faith of her youth, to worshipping false gods, while fighting for the love the young prince as he becomes king.



Set during Manasseh's turbulent reign, Mesu Andrews deals skillfully with this complex and at times painful story of sacrifice, forgiveness, and restoration. The story is told through varying points of view, shifting between Shulle, Zibah, and Nasseh, showing the confused and vulnerable king and the women who loved him most.



Though a sequel, this book stands well on it's own. A well researched fictional account showing the danger and darkness of idol worship, as well as the sovereignty of God, in the good and bad. I loved how this book portrayed people with different challenges as equal, but different, showing that they are capable of a great many things.



At times it wasn't an easy book to read, and this book deals with many mature themes--though not explicitly, like the sexual nature of pagan worship, so I wouldn't recommend for younger or more sensitive readers.



Overall, a compelling, and at times heart-wrenching fictionalization of Manasseh's reign and restoration. I loved Shulle from the beginning as a kind hearted young girl, patient and understanding, yet confused and taken advantage of, my heart went out to her. I admired Zibah's faithfulness and her mother's heart for her child. A beautifully, heartbreaking read of love, sin, idolatry and God's sovereignty through it all.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I am sorry to say that I was unable to get into this book. I am thinking maybe it just was that I wasn’t ready to ready this type of book. I have read the first two books in this series and loved them, so that is why I am thinking it was just me. I have tried this multiple times to read, but I just ended up putting it down. I have rated this a 2-star, where the beginning needed freshened up to make it interesting in the fact that you would want to read this.

Isaiah’s Legacy became available for sale February 18, 2020.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from NetGalley for my honest review.

It is truly the darkest before the dawn...

There are books, there are books, and then there are books. Isaiah's Legacy is one of the latter. This is one of those rare books that I loved and hated, which, shows just how talented Mesu Andrews truly is. I can't imagine it was easy for her to write this story, I certainly know that it wasn't always easy to read. Sometimes I simply couldn't put the book down, and just kept on reading in horrified fascination. Why, you ask? Because, this is the story of Hezi and Zibah's (Isaiah's Daughter) son who is known as the wickedest king in Judah's history. My heart broke as the character, Zibah, that I had so come to love in the previous book had pretty much everything stripped away from her as she watched her son spiral into unparalleled evil. My heart cried out for little Shulle as she was systematically stripped of her innocence and faith in God to become the instrument of evil people bent on revenge and power. And then there was Manasseh himself, young, naive, gentle, and manipulated by those who should have protected him.

Isaiah's Legacy was a hard book to read. I both loved and strongly disliked the heroine. The violence, the pain, the betrayal, and the abuse, heaped on the characters was heartrending. But it was true. Even if the fictionalized parts of the story didn't play out quite as portrayed, it was still TRUTH. This is the story of every little girl, or boy, who has been physically and emotionally assaulted by the very people they should be able to trust the most. This is the story of every mother dealing with the pain of a wayward child. This is the story of every child yearning for approval and finding it in the worst places. This is the story of every person who has to be torn down for Yahweh to build them back. Who has to find the end of themselves before they can truly be healed. This book is a terrible, beautiful, roller coaster of emotion that will leave the reader in tears but standing stronger than they were before. This is Isaiah's Legacy and it's our story now just as much as it was 2,700 years ago.

Please do not be scared off by what I've said. As hard as it was to read this story it's one that I think every adult SHOULD read. Ultimately, this book is a story of hope and of God's provision through the darkest of days. I wouldn't have said the things that I have if I hadn't become so invested in the story, if it wasn't so well written, if Mesu Andrews wasn't so amazingly good at her research and at making history and the Bible come alive in such vivid full-color detail. I can say without hesitation that Isaiah's Legacy will be on my list of favorite books this year and I can't quite say in words just how much I recommend this book from phenomenal pen of Mesu Andrews.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

I read my first Mesu Andrews book last year. Honestly, I don’t know why it took me so long to find her. Of Fire and Lions was one of the best books I have ever read.

When I saw that the second book in her Prophets and Kings series was coming out, I had to read the first one so I could be ready! I borrowed Isaiah’s Daughter from my library and read it over the Christmas holidays. Amazing isn’t even a good enough word to describe it.

Isaiah’s Daughter is the fictional story of Queen Zibah, King Hezekiah’s wife in the Old Testament. The characters and her meticulous research amazed me.

As I got near the end and Hezekiah and Zibah waited for their child to be born, I was so sad. I knew from reading the Bible that their son, Manasseh, was a wicked king. It broke my heart to think what was going to come of the baby they longed for.

I was so anxious to read Manasseh’s story. How would this wicked man come back to God? Mesu beautifully wrote Manasseh’s story in her newest book, Isaiah’s Legacy.

I know that Mesu’s stories are fictional. But they are so well-researched and historically accurate. The things she says really could’ve happened.

I’ve often wondered how Manasseh turned out like he did when his father was so devoted to God. I thought Mesu did an amazing job portraying his character and explaining some of the factors that could’ve led him to other gods.

Ultimately, I knew what Manasseh would do, and how his life would turn out. But I was still enthralled as the story unfolded! I came to tears multiple times thinking about how God forgave him and changed his life.

Isaiah’s Legacy is a beautiful picture of God’s grace, and His relentless pursuit of man. If we are personal friends, chances are I told you about this book. If we aren’t personal friends (YET) I’m telling you now. Read this one. It’s an instant fave.

Overall: 5 stars

Isaiah's Legacy is a well-written book about a particularly dark part of Israel's history, but it also contains a redemption story. The boy king Manasseh, son of Hezekiah, is written to have autism. Meshullemeth, frequently called Shulle, a young girl who wins the heart of Manasseh, leads Manasseh away from God. In spite of the great evil that she causes, Shulle is a likable and sympathetic character. She herself has been tricked, manipulated, and blackmailed. Manasseh decides to tour other kingdoms and learn from their rulers. He picks up concubines from these rulers, as well as a new queen. He learns great cruelty from the Assyrians, such a change from the boy that hated Passover because of the death of the lamb. This story gave my emotions a work-out! There are characters in the story, as in the Bible, that are faithful to Yahweh. Although many lose their lives, there always remains a remnant that God preserves. Mesu Andrews does an exceptional job researching the period of history and then bringing it to life for her readers. I hope there will be more to read in this series. I intend to read more of this author's works and recommend her books. I received a complimentary copy. I chose to write a review and share my opinion of this wonderful book. #partner @waterbrookmultnomah

Wow!
Isaiah's Legacy is the first book I have read by this author and undoubtedly not going to be the last. Mesu Andrews has reminded me why I adore biblical/historical fiction. I found myself wanting to reach for my bible to read digest the actual passages. My goal for 2020 was to focus less on biblical fiction and get deeper into my actual Bible, and I am so grateful that I after reading this novel, Mesu Andrews has given me the encouragement to do just that.

Isaiah's Legacy tells the contrasting story of Manasseh, a cruel and idol-worshiping king, whereas the king before (his father) - King Hezekiah was a God fearing, respectable king. It tells the story of God's promises and his undying love. No person is too small or too far gone to be brought back home to God. This book was a page-turner. I could not put it down. I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, WaterBrook Multnomah, through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I'd give this book a 10 star if that was possible.

“Everyone dies, precious Bekira, and we all leave a legacy. The question is, Does our legacy speak Yahweh’s truth to those who follow?”

I am rarely speechless. Somehow I always know what to say and if I can't say it, my body language expresses it.
But after reading this book I didn't have words for it. I was overwhelmed. Overwhelmed in a good way. I was overwhelmed by the undeserved, pursuing love of God. More than any book I have read, Isaiah's Legacy paralysed my senses and brought to life one of the most profound prodigal stories and expression of God's love.
It made me see myself as I am; underserving but yet loved with a fierceness greater than any chain, claim or darkness.

King Menessah's and Shulle's story will drive your heart to God, will convict your heart of sin and open you wide to a Love and LORD that pursues you like you are the only one alive.

I received a copy of the book and this is my honest opinion.

This is my first read by Mesu Andrews and I can see why her books are rated so highly after reading this one.
Very well written and it's obvious the author did a lot of research to bring us this book.
The Old Testament comes alive on these pages . She brings the biblical times to life and with her descriptiveness you can imagine how it was back then.
I enjoyed reading the scripture incorporated within the story.
Biblical fiction at it's finest, couldn't read this fast enough and look forward to the author's next book.

Published February 18th 2020 by Waterbrook Press
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

King Manasseh's history is filled with idolatry and evil, yet it is also a story of redemption and hope. It is so amazing to think that if God could forgive Manasseh, He can also redeem me!

Knowing the despicable things this king had done gave me pause as I considered reading this book. I mean, really, he spent most of his life in rebellion, right? So wouldn't a story about him have to be pretty bad as well?

Before Isaiah's Legacy, I had not read any of Mesu Andrews' books about Biblical characters who were not walking with God through most of their lives. And yet, what I've seen of her heart in her other stories and what I've come to know of her through newsletters and Facebook groups, I just knew, that she would find a way to make Manasseh's story accurate and still filled with hope. And I was right.

I love the way she chose to explain why Manasseh did so many of the things he did. Not by saying that someone on the autism spectrum is prone to evil, because this was not even insinuated. Instead, by explaining that he could have been more easily led astray due to his difficulty in reading social cues that come more easily to many others. In his desire to please one he thought was his friend, he turned his back on the God his father worshipped.

I certainly didn't expect to actually like him in the story, nor to like Shulle, his wife who encouraged him in his evil practices. And yet, in her masterful way, Mesu Andrews created very loveable, hurting, characters who were in need of redemption. While the author didn't hesitate to tell of the sins of the characters, she did not glorify or overemphasize them.

If you enjoy well-researched Biblical fiction that makes history come alive, you won't want to miss reading Isaiah's Legacy.

The depths that the author takes readers to is phenomenal. Each word echoed in my heart and the story unfolded. I love reading Biblical stories that capture the truth and take me back in time. I didn’t know much about King Manasseh until this book brought his story to light. Tucked in the pages of the Bible was a King that many feared and was the essence of darkness surrounding them.

It is interesting to note that Manasseh was autistic and people had a hard time relating to him. He had a desire to be accepted and I think that became his downfall towards an evil path. The story is dark and at times hard to read, but I appreciate the author not shying away from the truth. I wanted to stop reading the book at times because it was so hard to fathom what was happening. The enemy is always there waiting for a chance to crawl into someone’s mind and make them doubt the existence of God.
The story suggests that Manasseh was the first prodigal son and I can see how that could have been true. The author does let readers know that this story is not an easy read, but it definitely made me do some soul searching. The battle is real between good vs evil and I held on to hope that God would proclaim victory. This is one story that had an impact on my life and led me to a deeper hunger for God.

I received an arc copy of this book from the author and publisher. The review is my own opinion.

Isaiah’s Legacy by master wordsmith Mesu Andrews is Biblical Fiction at its finest. This is book #3 in The Prophets and Kings Series. It is an impressive 400 page paperback book with an enchanting cover.

Author Andrews has a captivating style of writing. Her prose takes readers on a journey to ancient times and lands. People from the Bible are brought to life on the pages of her book. This is a well researched, well planned, and very well written novel. I was immediately invested in the story.

Keeping true to scripture Author Andrews brings the life of King Manasseh front and center in her book. He was a troubled, cruel man. His father was King Hezekiah, who died when his son was only twelve years old. Manasseh has learning difficulties and needs to learn so much to rule. Shebna is his tutor and has a brother with a similar disability who’s daughter, Shulle, has assisted him. Shebna offers rooms to his brother and niece in exchange for her help tutoring Manasseh. Shebna uses her wiles to sway him away from Yahweh. When Manasseh becomes king, he marries Shulle.

This is a powerful retelling of a Biblical story. King Hezekiah restored Judah to a nation that followed God. His son, King Manasseh, becomes Judah’s most wicked king and changes everything his father worked so faithfully to restore. King Hezekiah’s wife, Hephzibah, Isaiah’s daughter, struggles with her young son and losing her husband. Then her heart breaks even more as she watches Manasseh take reign over their country and make horrible changes that result in the death of her father and friends. I found those parts hard to read, specifically about sorcery, child sacrifice and the killing of God’s people.

I highly recommend this spectacular novel. It helps bring the Old Testament alive. This would make a great group study book. There is so much to discuss. I loved it and have found it has stayed with me. It definitely receives a 5 out of 5 stars rating from me.

A copy was provided by Waterbrook & Multnomah Launch Team. This is my own, honest opinion.