Once I got past the lump in my throat at reading about the polygamous lifestyle of this time and culture, I saw what the author wanted to bring to my attention. It’s not David’s mistakes. It’s not David’s multiple wives. It’s the power of love, forgiveness and faith. After all, David was a “man after God’s own heart”. Come find out why! Pick up this incredible first book in the King David’s Brides series.

“The barrenness strengthens and shapes us into what the Lord wants us to become”

The wilderness and barrenness play a large role in shaping the character of King David and his wife Ahinoam. Author Mesu Andrews shows us that David and Ahinoam were likely no different from you and me in that they got swept up in the wilderness living and surviving the Judean desert and failed to seek God’s abundance. I was thankful for the author’s reminder that we too can get swept up in our modern lifestyle and spend our time and energy ‘surviving’. She encourages readers to take steps beyond this focus and seek out God’s abundant promises.

“Love makes us all better people.”

The power of love is first revealed in Michal’s plans to protect David and then crescendoes to reveal how it strengthens David and Ahinoam’s faith journey. They are both put in positions that could tear them apart, but love is the glue that holds them together and enables Ahinoam to welcome Abigail. My heart was aching at how Ahinoam had to make room for Abigail, but Andrews explored this heart-wrenching struggle with tender care. Love for David to become the next King encouraged his army to follow and fight. Love for his God led David to insist he was in His presence with each step and decision. Love led them to be ready and strengthened to fight. Love truly bears all things. Steadfast love.

“You’re about to ruin your future because of bitterness over your past.”

Andrews also explores the ripple effects of disobedience. In not destroying the Amelekites, Saul left a wake of heartache and the characters in this story are in a predicament facing that disobedience. Andrews reminds readers that God is more concerned with meeting people’s needs than meeting their expectations. We can’t change our past, but we can change how we respond or react. It was good to be reminded not to stoop to unhealthy reactions prompted by past wounds. So much of David and Ahinoam’s life showcases the effects of forgiveness. Like Ahinoam, I know that sometimes it is easier to make the decision to forgive than to allow the healing process to begin. It’s at this time that we need God more than ever.

Andrews shows us unequivocally what it means to be a brave bride. I learned so much about focus, forgiveness, and faith from this brave Jezreelite. I’m eagerly awaiting Maakah’s story!

I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

Amazing story of dedication, heartache, family, mystery, and more. Author Mesu Andrews shares the life journey of Ahinoam. This brave warrior woman became one of King David's brides and dealt with extreme danger during her life. Her bravery gives hope to those who learn about her life. Great read. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

Brave by Mesu Andrews is the first book of the David's Wives series. I had looked forward to this book, because David is a very interesting Biblical character, and I was not disappointed. I enjoyed how the author built the story of Ahinoam, David's first wife, whose story was barely mentioned in the Bible. On the flip side, there is a lot of fiction here which can make it a little difficult to connect with the Bible. However, this book provided a possible explanation for why David had many wives and I look forward to reading the stories of the other wives. Thank you, Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for giving the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are honest and fully mine.