My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing
About the Book
Her greatest sacrifice became her greatest legacy.
Zacharias has loved Elisabeth all his life. When negotiations are made for their marriage, the childhood friends trust that their future will be bright. But as their story unfolds in their village near Jerusalem, the life they build together is marked by both the joy of love and the sorrows of loss and longing, for as the years pass by, the steadfast couple is never blessed with the thing they desire above all: a child.
Now beyond childbearing years, it seems that the couple’s righteous desire will never be granted—until a divine promise is made, and they learn that their fate will transcend the bounds of age and mortal comprehension. Elisabeth and Zacharias are destined to play a pivotal role in the fulfillment of ancient scripture, and they soon come to understand that God’s plan is far grander than they ever dreamed.
My Review
I read quite a bit of Christmas themed books this time of year, especially rom-coms. This book, however, has become my new favorite Christmas novel! I loved the story of the early years of Zacharias and Elizabeth, bringing the historical figures to life with personality and details from the era. I can always rely on the author for immaculate research and love the way she weaves it into her stories. It is eye opening to realize how different cultures from the past can be from ours, yet there are universal things we have in common like relationships and feelings.
The second part of the book is so special- the visit from an angel to Zacharias in the temple, his affliction of being struck dumb, and the miracle of John's conception. The emotion of Elisabeth and Zacharias through these events is close to the surface and I felt connected to them and their experiences in a way I never have before. Mary's visit to Elisabeth during both of their pregnancies was an incredible part, as she lived and worked quietly with them, and shared with her family her own angelic visitation and miracles. The scriptures and prophecies are intensely studied by Zacharias and his brother, and Mary gleans this important knowledge from them to prepare her for her role in raising the Savior of the world. Elisabeth and Zacharias rejoice that their son will prepare the way for Christ and also take their roles seriously. The days leading up to the birth of Christ are filled with so much anticipation and hope, it made the Christmas season feel so much more powerful and meaningful to me (and brought tears to my eyes in several places!)
I highly recommend this book as *the* must-read Christmas book of the year, and for any time following! What a truly enriching and inspiring experience to read this story.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Biblical Novels by H.B. Moore
