first-century massacre of hundreds of Jewish people at Masada, this richly detailed, lyrical
novel is narrated by 4 women: pa hated daughter, a baker's wife, a girl disguised as a
warrior, and a medicine woman who keeps doves (and secrets) while Roman soldiers draw
near. The Dovekeepers offers poignant insights into dangerous intersections of power, gender, and religion in women's lives during this period." (NoveList)
Here are 4 additional suggestions from NoveList for further reading:
- The Red Tent by Anita Diamant. "As in Brooks' novel, high-drama human relationships play out against a vividly rendered backdrop of Old Testament history. Dinah is left alone and pregnant when her brother murders her lover. Themes of Love, betrayal, & treachery will resonate with fans.....and Dinah's story will appeal to readers interested in the lives of biblical women." NoveList
- The Secret Chord by Geraldine Brooks. "Brooks does it again, in this fascinating and richly detailed fictionalized account of the life & times of King David. We see David as he might actually have been: a charismatic leader of men, both brutal and conflicted. This is perfect for historical fiction readers who enjoy lots of detail and believable characters. It transports you to the times and places inhabited by David." -- Marilee Cogswell for LibraryReads.
- Gilead by Marilynne Robinson. "...chronicles the life of a complex man, torn by conflicting impulses and driven by divine will. As he prepares for death, Reverend John Ames bares the multi-generational story of his family in a moving letter to his son. His meditations on faith, joy, and pain are reminiscent in tone....spiritual quest for understanding." NoveList
- Queenmaker: a novel of King David's Queen by India Edghill. "A retelling of the biblical story of King David from the embittered perspective of his first wife, here called Michal. Readers seeking deeper understanding of this complex character will find this a fast-paced and imaginative interpretation of her transformation from a naive princess into a shrewd queen." NoveList
when I remove my eyes from the page and return to this life I am filled with gratitude for all
of the freedoms that we have. Take nothing for granted. Appreciate everything. And
continue to Read! Read!! Read!!!