Ruth, Mother of Kings

by Diana Wallis Taylor

Overview

The story of Ruth has captivated Christian believers for centuries, not least of all because she is one of only two women with books of the Bible named after them. Now, Diana Wallis Taylor animates this cherished part of the Old Testament, with its unforgettable cast of characters. Experience Ruth’s elation as a young bride—and her grief at finding herself a widow far before her time. Witness the unspeakable relief of Naomi upon hearing her daughter-in-law promise never to leave her. And celebrate with Boaz when, after years as a widower, he discovers love again, with a woman he first found gleaning in his field. The story of this remarkable woman to whom Jesus Christ traced His lineage comes to life in the pages of this dramatic retelling.
 

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781603749039
Publisher:	Whitaker House
Publication date:	08/15/2013
Pages:	256
Sales rank:	1,048,556
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Diana Wallis Taylor was first published at age twelve, when she sold a poem to a church newsletter. Today, she has an extensive portfolio of published works, including twelve books; an Easter cantata, Glorious, written with a musical collaborator; and contributions to various magazines and compilations.
Her works of biblical fiction include: Lydia Woman of Philippi; Mary, Chosen of God; Journey to the Well, the story of the woman of Samaria; Martha; Mary Magdalene; Claudia, Wife of Pontius Pilate; and Ruth, Mother of Kings. Diana also wrote a book on Halloween, Harmless Fun or Risky Business.
Diana lives in San Diego with her husband, Frank. They have six grown children and ten grandchildren. Readers can learn more by visiting her website, www.dianawallistaylor.com.

Editorial Reviews

Taylor, who has dramatized the stories of other biblical women (Martha; Mary Magdalene; and Claudia, Wife of Pontius Pilate), fleshes out the lives of Ruth and her second husband Boaz, the great-grandparents of King David, in her latest novel. While the Bible presents Ruth with hardships, Taylor compounds the difficulties by adding disease, treachery, and betrayal to her circumstances. Ruth’s early story is alternated with an embellished account of Boaz’s life, which includes its share of tragedy and despair prior to meeting Ruth. While Taylor presents a detailed and dramatic tale, some Christian readers may have difficulty with the liberties she has taken with the lives of biblical characters. Most notably, she makes Ruth a Jewish woman, and not a Moabite, as has traditionally been thought. Apparently recognizing the possibility of disagreement with her characterization, Taylor justifies her position both through her storytelling and in the background information at the end of the book. Agent: Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary Agency. (Oct.)

Publishers Weekly

When Naomi's two sons die, she returns home and urges her widowed daughters-in-law to remarry. Ruth refuses, telling Naomi that wherever she goes, Ruth will go with her. In Bethlehem, Naomi marries a widow named Boaz, and they have a son who will become the grandfather of King David. VERDICT This fresh retelling of the Book of Ruth is rich in description and emotion. In Taylor's capable hands, these Old Testament characters come to life. Readers who appreciate stories about strong female characters or who enjoy historical fiction in the tradition of The Red Tent or books by Francine Rivers will want to try Taylor's other acclaimed inspirational novels.

Library Journal