I really enjoyed reading Up from the Dust. The story gave a perspective to how life and society behaved during the time of Jesus. I really loved reading about Mary and Martha and the ficfionalized family struggles. I wonderful read foe anyone who loves historical fiction!

I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley. I have read other books by Heather Kaufman, and this might be my favorite.
She brings to life the the characters of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. She gives them back stories and friendships. They intertwine with Jesus and it's a delight to unfold.

Up from Dust by Heather Kaufman is an outstanding piece of literature. I have always been intrigued by Martha, Lazarus, and Mary in the Gospels. Naturally, I want to know more about this group of siblings and their uniquely personal relationship with Jesus. What a blessing to have been counted as close friends of God! Kaufman does a fantastic job weaving fictional “might have been” with well-researched historical and Gospel detail. I appreciate how Kaufman envisions an emotional and plausible childhood and young adulthood for Martha, Lazarus, and Mary. Kaufman does a good job crafting legitimate Jewish characters who could have lived in Israel in the time of Jesus who also feel life-like and pull at the reader’s heartstrings. My heart hurt so badly for Martha. Her pain runs deep. Many times I wanted to enter into the story just so I could give her a big hug and tell her, “I see you!” And her moments with Jesus…tears streaming down my face! These moments are so, so good. To know that Jesus sees you and acknowledges all you’ve been through, could anything be more satisfying?

This is my favorite message of the novel: Jesus knows our pain and suffering. He sees how all the events in our lives connect to make us who we are today. There is no “I don’t like you because you make mistakes” kind of judgement. There’s grace and mercy. And there is correction, sure, but it is clearly born out of love. I admit it, I’ve judged Martha for being “mean” to Mary in Luke 10. I’ve wondered how she could not get sitting at Jesus’s feet was the better option. Kaufman’s story, however, taught me what grace in the moment looks like by reminding me that a single moment is just that, and it is preceded by many, many moments I didn’t see. I need to be very careful when judging a moment, and a person in that moment, because I often don’t see the whole picture. But God does. Jesus speaks to Martha with compassion and grace in Luke 10. He isn’t yelling at her or scolding her like she is a recalcitrant child, but rather He is instructing her in grace and love. And I need to do the same. I need to see people as hurting people who are in a moment, and I need to come at them with grace and love just as Jesus does. What a wonderful reminder from a very exceptional story!

There is no way to do this book justice in one review. I have barely cracked the surface! Up from Dust is a wonderful story that will stick with me long after the final page has turned. This is a story not to be missed.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Bethany House, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Up from Dust by Heather Kaufman is her debut Biblical fiction story centered around Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. I had heard so many good things about this story that I knew I had to give it a try.

I really loved most everything about part one, which is the first half of this story. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, so I’ll just say I was completely invested and loved how Martha’s story was shaping up. Part two of this story centered more around Jesus and His interactions with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus leading up to His crucifixion. I liked how many Biblical truths were in this part of the story. While I did wish something that did eventually happen would’ve happened sooner, and with more of a lead up to it, I still enjoyed the second half, but not quite as much as the first half. How’s that for being cryptic? lol. I’m just really trying to stay away from spoiler territory. I felt the writing in this story was very strong and I would definitely read this author again.

This is the first book in the Women of the Way series. I am curious to see who the next story is about!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is prominent throughout. 4 stars.

This book is incredible! At times in my life, I have related to both Mary and Martha. I enjoyed reading this fictional account of Mary's life and her relationship with Jesus. I could relate to her struggles so well! Beautifully written. I look forward to reading more by the author.

This was an amazing novel from Ms. Kaufman! It’s Biblical Fiction at its best and I can’t wait for more books from her if they are like this one!
There might be several fictional stories about Martha of Bethany, but this is my first one and I loved it! I’ve always wondered about the dutiful sister who was affectionately reprimanded by Jesus, and who was so close and trusted him so much that she respectfully protested to him about not being present in the most painful of circumstances. I don’t want so spoil the story, and you have the blurb of the book, in case you want to know more about the story before reading it.
I just want to say that it was beautifully told, and that it seemed so well researched that I felt transported to Jesus’s era, with their customs and way of living. The main characters -Martha being the first-, but also Lazarus and Mary, were so realistic and relatable: the three siblings so different between themselves, yet with such a strong bond that I think was strengthened by being orphaned of mother and having a demanding and estranged father. I loved their traits, how being so different, they were all so lovable and admirable. They felt to me as a family I was rooting for. The story is heart-wrenching at times, yet always full of hope. I loved how Jesus was portrayed too, not only when they get to befriend him, but also in a few of scenes when one of the characters encounters him when Jesus was still young and not publicly known. I loved the connection Martha and Uri had with Jesus through the feather pendant. The faith inspired message of the book is so beautiful and humbling that it made me think about my own relationship with him, about my trust in Jesus, despite things not always happening as I would wish or even pray for. This book left me inspired to be as friendly, trusting, and loving to Jesus, as the siblings of Bethany were, each in their own way and unique relationship. I cried and sighed in satisfaction after reading this story. I only wish there was a sequel, so I could know more about this loving and dear character, but my imagination already has its own stories to imagine. Maybe in Heaven will know the real story and more. I liked this story so much, that I’m not sure I want to read others about these siblings. I loved how Ms. Kaufman deeply and humanly portrayed them. Their relationship was not devoid of difficulties and misunderstandings, yet their love was steadfast, and grew stronger through hardship. The ending was so inspiring and redemptive! Many things to learn from these siblings journey, particularly Martha’s!
I highly recommend this story to all lovers of Biblical or Historical Fiction. An amazing story to be sure!
I received a copy of the book from the Publisher via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Even after 2,000 years, siblings Mary, Lazarus and Martha are still a compelling part of the Good News. Author Kaufman details their stories in a way that brings them to life and shows us how regular people intersected with Jesus and then were changed.

The first part of the book introduces the three and the author does a good job of creating their backstories, from childhood to the start of Jesus’ ministry. Mary is a troubled, different child, Lazarus tries to grow up and become a responsible man, and Martha worries about everything. Mary and Martha were not particularly endearing characters. I was touched by an invented story of a shepherd friend of Martha who met Jesus as a boy.

The second part of the book focuses on the Bible stories that we know so well. Mary wants to listen and learn from Jesus; Martha worries as she tries to prepare the meal and entertain their guests. Martha finds fault with Jesus for the death of Lazarus, and then worships him as Lazarus is resurrected. The three siblings also experience the risen Christ. Jesus is shown as possessing “fire and kindness”, and “righteous anger, tenderness and compassion.”

The death of Lazarus was beautifully presented. I felt like I was a witness outside his tomb, at first puzzled and then astounded.

In this book, Mary and Martha were not appealing people, they had a lot of faults. But, Jesus still loved them very much. Isn’t this a good lesson for me?

The author notes that to her, Scripture is preeminent. Her presentation of the stories of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus seemed true to the Bible.

I received an advance digital review copy and this is my honest review. Thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers

This was a very compelling read — if you enjoyed reading ` The Red Tent ` or ` The Book of Longings` — you will enjoy this book. A dramatization of the biblical events told in the gospel of Luke and John from the perspective of Martha of Bethany —Kaufman explores some "what ifs" regarding Mary, Martha, and Lazarus of Bethany—in this story　told from a female perspective gives a different spin on the biblical stories. Kaufman is skillful in her writing weaves together elements of history and fiction. The book is full of emotion and has a great early love story for Martha—you will be pulled along on Martha`s journey -- The vivid, beautiful descriptions and well-developed characters create a world that feels authentic, drawing you in from the very first page.

Thank -you to Netgalley and Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers for this ARC.
This is my honest review.

Up From Dust, book 1 of the Women of the Way series, by Heather Kaufman is an absolute must-read for anyone who loves Biblical fiction! This is the story of Martha, Lazarus' sister. Ms. Kaufman weaves Biblical facts with her amazing imagination to take us on a journey through Martha's life and the challenges a woman faced during Biblical times. The ending is everything I hoped it would be!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Biblical fiction.

I was provided an advance reader copy by the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review, but my review and opinion are given of my own volition.

This story will stick with you! I don't particularly enjoy narrative from a child's perspective so the start was a little slow for me, but once Uri hit the scene, I couldn't read fast enough. The characters were brought to life so beautifully. The way that Jesus was portrayed was so well-done. This story drove me to Scripture to read the accounts written about and I learned so much from the lessons and experiences of the characters. I will be thinking about this one for awhile. Highly highly recommend!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Up from Dust is the best book I’ve read in a long time. The author’s research is astounding. She carefully weaves facts from the time period/culture with her vivid imagination to create a masterful story brought to life by her exquisite writing. I appreciate her commitment to stay true to Jesus, His interactions, and the words He spoke in the Bible. I was completely engrossed while reading, and my heart for Martha is so tender. I smiled and cried and cheered and fumed and cried and smiled some more. I even purchased extra copies for gifts. To state it simply, I loved this book. Book 2 cannot release fast enough!

Whew. My emotions are all over the place right now.

I love the way this author brought the Biblical Martha to life. Her fictional backstory was definitely plausible, and it was interesting to see the possibilities there. The way Heather Kaufman described what the siblings' relationships could have been like made a lot of sense, too.

And you know, I never think about Jesus as an adolescent, but I love the brief picture this book paints of Him. Also, I could SEE Jesus eating. How have I never even considered how flavorful/spicy He would have liked His food? He was human, after all, and not only God. But this author made Him REAL. I think, for myself at least, that since I am always holding Him up as God, I forget the humanity of Him.

And the account of Lazarus in the tomb. The events that led to it, Martha's interaction with Jesus when He comes, and then the result of His appearing. How sad that the actual Biblical account no longer brings me to tears, but this book did? I'm ashamed to say that I take the Bible for granted, and I am in awe of authors who can bring it to life.

And then, chills. I had literal goosebumps on my arms. All over. Jesus has risen.

~I received a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

I loved this telling of Martha of Bethany’s story. While I knew her story from scripture I never really thought much about her relationship with her brother Lazarus before. A beautiful story. A must read for lovers of biblical fiction.
*I received an ARC copy but all opinions are my own

Up from Dust by Heather Kaufman is an outstanding story about standing in the presence of Jesus and allowing Him to heal you, body and soul. I was enthralled the entire time I read it. Join Martha, Mary, and Lazarus as they meet Jesus and learn what it means to be truly known and loved. The story focuses on Martha and what her life would have been like. I loved the character growth and development. I loved the tenderness displayed. I loved the heart for Jesus that was apparent on every page. This is definitely worth the time and investment! I will be looking forward to many more stories by Kaufman!
I am grateful to NetGalley and Bethany House for the chance to read and review this story.
#upfromdust #womenoftheway #heatherkaufman #bhpfiction

This beautifully written story of Martha of Bethany was brought scripture alive for me. I never realized how much Jesus’ interactions with Martha’s family figured in the progression of his ministry. Up from Dust ties the scriptural accounts of Jesus’ ministry and sacrifice together with a fictional romance and family drama, all the while showing the culture and struggle of the Jewish people under Roman rule. A wonderful book for anyone who enjoys The Chosen or likes to imagine what life may have been like for those mentioned the Gospels.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. I was not required to leave a review.

I felt the book was well laid out and very well told. The author explained things so well I felt like I was in there. She did well with transitioning the story, it flowed well through the chapters It kept my interest from the first page to the last. Martha at times seemed a bit whiny, but I loved the relationship and interaction among her siblings. It was a creative spin on the story of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. I enjoyed it and would definitely recommend.

“How can I begin to tell of the many things I have found? Or of the One who found me? I see His hand in my story like a weaver’s shuttle through the warp, steady and sure, pulling here, loosening there, doing the work necessary for beauty. How do I tell of His capable hands, the ones that rescued me?”

“Before I can share the many ways I was found, I would have to begin with the day I was lost.”

And so, in the prologue, ( I hope you read prologues!) we have the reason for Heather Kaufman’s imagination of Martha’s life long before she ever met Jesus. As with other great Biblical fiction, Kaufman takes a few verses and passages we know of a Biblical individual. These are not changed from Scripture. But where Scripture is silent, the author suggests possible life events that send Martha, Mary, and Lazarus on their life trajectories until they encounter Jesus. “Maybe she or he reacted this way because…” In the meantime, Kaufman’s Martha becomes so real, so human, you will sympathize, you will judge, you will hold your breath as you hold her secrets, and you will wonder how she survived growing up in her father’s house. You will begin to understand a woman’s plight in Jewish society in the first century. Kaufman presents challenging relationships well. Some romantic, some familial, some friend-based. You will sigh, you will cry, you will ask, “Why?” But hopefully, when all is said and done, you will turn to the Biblical story to check out what truth we do know, and you’ll never view Martha or her siblings as 2- dimensional again!

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher, through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley, plus I bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Yahweh keeps providing beacons of light in your life to guide you when you need it most.”

“None of us is worthy. We are all naked and undone before the holiness of God.”
“Who can stand before this holy God?”
“Those who align themselves with His Son.”

“Sometimes love engulfs us suddenly, like a consuming fire.”“…Other times it comes over us slowly, like a sunrise.”

An addicting Biblical fiction! The author was very descriptive and brought the story of Mary, Martha & Lazarus to life. I felt like I was there with Martha, experiencing her love, grief, pain, hope, etc. I loved seeing how the author depicted the relationships that Jesus had with each of the siblings, as well as the relationships they had with each other. It was a beautiful book, probably my new favorite historical fiction set in Biblical times.

This story was filled with scripture, and thoughtful research. It was well written, and the author sets the stage well with her characters and with the time period. I was taken on an emotional journey with the siblings, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. The story itself was carefully constructed to implement as much historical, cultural, and biblical context as it can without reading like a history book. I do not agree with all the choices of fiction the author decided to go with, and Mary was a character that I had some issues with, but overall I could tell that the author put a lot of thought into her story/characters. I love that the author wrote (at the end of the book) why she decided to make the choices that she did with her story. Overall I would recommend this book, and I am interested to read more books by this author.

Heather Kaufman's 'Up from Dust' is biblical storytelling at its finest, blending the lives of Martha, Lazarus, and Mary into a tale that is as vivid and emotive as it is effortless to read. Kaufman's finesse in writing transports readers directly into Martha's world, a realm richly painted with the hues of joy and sorrow, hope and loss.

Scripture acts as waypoints in Kaufman's storytelling, illuminating her fictional retelling with known biblical events. These markers provide Bible-literate readers with familiar reference points, guiding them through Kaufman's imaginative exploration of the lives and interactions of these biblical figures with Christ. Despite taking creative liberties, her approach remains reverent and respectful to the biblical account, infusing the story with depth and texture while honoring its origins.

Central to this tale is the poignant portrayal of Martha and her siblings, who endure the profound loss of their mother and the subsequent neglect from their father. This hardship profoundly shapes their self-perception and relationships, with their tangible insecurities adding a layer of authenticity to their characters.

'Up from Dust' is more than a novel; it's a heartfelt invitation to delve into the biblical world with a new perspective. I firmly believe that this book's exceptional quality positions it as a strong contender for major awards in the Christian publishing industry. For those yet to experience the richness of biblical fiction, or even those skeptical about the genre, 'Up from Dust' stands as a compelling entry point, promising to transform any preconceived notions with its profound storytelling and emotional resonance.

Selected Quotes:
"I am old now and gray, and my heart is full of found things. I have found the nettling burn of sorrow. I have found the relief of joy and the gift of love. I have found the goodness of God, and it is sweet on the lips like honeycomb."

“I confess that I’ve often not understood it. I’ve not understood the winding path Yahweh placed me on. All I do know is that it led me here . . . to you.”

"Abba’s harsh words had landed hard on me. They needed someplace to go, or I would internalize them, swallow them into my very being like poison."

“Loss can lead to bitterness. Knowledge can lead to pride. Both the hard and good things in our lives can take root in ways that produce death.”

"In loving Him with our whole being, our hearts will be fertile ground, ready to receive all that Yahweh ordains for us. So that when the hard and the good come into our lives, they land in soil that will produce fruit.”

"I hungered for Jesus’ presence and yet also dreaded it, for in his presence I felt uncannily seen."