Book Review: Judah's Wife by Angela Hunt

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I love finding books that highlight a part of history I know very little about. This is one of those books. Despite a lifetime of Christian upbringing and a fairly healthy knowledge of the Old Testament, I know nothing about the Maccabees or the 400 Years of Silence between the Old and New Testament. At first, I was a little wary of Hunt's quotations from 1st and 2nd Maccabees, but in the author's notes at the end, she explains that while they aren't inspired (and thus canonized in the Christian Bible), they are historical and useful for understanding a period of Jewish history that isn't recorded in the Old Testament. 

Hunt's research is impeccably done and she writes beautifully, but the story just wasn't exactly what I enjoy. I hate lowering my rating based on personal preference, but I received this book free in exchange for an honest review, so I'll be honest in my estimations of it. 

The book had very little romance and many descriptions of battles - complete with strange names of Kings, Generals, Commanders, and the like. I have no interest in the strategy of war and felt myself growing tired of the constant battle scenes. Beyond that, the family life and religious persecution were interesting and well told. And I loved the growth Leah's character experienced. Hunt writes almost allegorically at times through the experiences Judah and Leah share throughout their marriage. It was a beautiful reminder of God's compassion, love, and sacrifice. 

I hated the ending because it had to remain historically accurate instead of tying up in a neat bow of happily ever after that I enjoy!

If you're looking for well-researched Biblical fiction with a bent toward war and light on the romance, this is the book for you. Thanks to the publisher for a free review copy.