If you enjoy biblical fiction or historical drama from days of long ago, check out this series about the early wives of Israel’s King David. This novel is set in the days before he took the throne and explores the relationship between his two wives and a newcomer, Maakah from Geshur, a princess who joins them in the wild wilderness plagued by enemies and intrigue. The author paints the setting and time period well and uses her vivid imagination to flesh out these women we know little about and to show what the former shepherd/soldier might have been like. Of course, she adds much to the story in this fictionalized account based on the Bible story. We can visualize what life might have been like there at that time and how women played a role. The themes of faith and family stand strong as does loyalty and trust. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #Noble #NetGalley

I thought this was a well written Biblical fiction taking us back to the time of David and allowing us to meet the strong women who were his wives. I liked how David and Maakah didn’t trust each other at the beginning of their relationship but throughout the story learned to trust and see each other as God sees them. I liked learning about this time in history and thought the author did a great job of making the characters interesting enough that we wanted to know about their lives. I thought the story was well researched and was well told.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Noble by the gifted wordsmith Mesu Andrews is a riveting Biblical fiction novel. It is Book Two in the author’s series King David’s Wives. I am a Biblical fiction fan, but only if it does not contradict the Bible. Mesu Andrews does her research well and sticks to scripture.

This book is beautifully written. Words flow smoothly and paint a picture of times and places from the Bible. Ancient people come alive on the pages making it easier to understand them and their way of life. The author has joined historical facts with her imaginative perception of what might have been to present a plausible captivating story. I loved it.

This story is about Maakah, King David’s third wife. It is interesting to read how the other two wives interact with her. The explanation why King David has multiple wives answered many of my questions in a rational manner. I might not like the fact he had more than one wife, but I understood why he did.

I was totally mesmerized with the story, details, and characters. This book took me away to King David’s camp and introduced me to men and women that previously were only names. It was difficult to put the book down. There is so much to glean from this book. I adore how the people worship Adonai. He is respected and revered in a way that seems lost today.

I highly recommend this astounding novel. It opened my eyes to many things. This would make a great Reading group selection. It would also make a nice gift coupled with Book One, Brave. I give it a 5 star rating. A complimentary copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

Noble, the second book in Mesu Andrews King David’s Brides Series pulls back the curtain on David, the Man after God’s Own Heart, and the Princess of Geshur, Maakah. While fleeing in the Wilderness from King Saul, David, God’s Anointed, has a full life of overseeing his camp of followers and supporters, fighting any battles that God deems fit, and being the Head of his Family and caring for his wives Ahinoam and Abigail and their growing Family. Maakah’s father, King Talmai of Geshur sends his Daughter to David’s Camp after two failed engagements to propose marriage to David. Maakah, along with her maid Zulat, arrive to David’s Camp in the middle of a battle where the women and children of David and his men have been kidnapped and held hostage while David and his men are fighting elsewhere. Maakah is shocked to find out that the man her father wants her to marry is already married with two wives and wants nothing to do with David. Realizing that Ahinoam is about to give birth, Maakah and Zulat stay to help until they can be escorted back home to Geshur. Maakah quickly bonds with David’s two wives and starts learning about the One True God. Ahinoam and Abigail conspire to get David and Maakah together because they believe that Maakah can counsel David on Royal Affairs. David doesn’t want another wife, especially one who doesn’t know God. Maakah doesn’t want to marry David either, but as God reveals Himself to Maakah she begins to see things differently and clearly. As both David and Maakah seek God’s Will for their lives, there’s danger at every turn, but His Light keeps shining the Way.

Mesu Andrews work has been on my TBR list for a while now and I am excited I got the chance to read Ms. Andrews latest release, Noble! I’m very apprehensive and picky about reading Biblical Fiction, but the research, background, and notes to the Reader that Ms. Andrews put into Noble put my mind at ease. I thought that the premise of King David’s Brides Series, as a whole, focusing on the Brides that David married before reuniting Israel was genius! I love how Ms. Andrews stayed within the confines of Scripture and Cultural History, allowing God to help her create Noble. The detail and imagery that was written in Noble really swept me into the book! Reading the scenes with David and his wives, though not inappropriate by any means, made it uncomfortable for me at times, even though I am fully aware that it was acceptable in Bible Times. I did appreciate that Ms. Andrews wrote those elements of the story and did not shy away from them. I felt that Ms. Andrews wrote those particular scenes beautifully and respectfully. I thought it was fascinating how Ms. Andrews showed the heart root of how David approached marriage and gave David his own strict code of marriage that he himself lived by. I thought that the way David was portrayed in Noble kept true to the David we all know and love from the Bible. Even though there isn’t much information about Maakah in the Bible, I felt that Ms. Andrews gave Maakah a full-fledged story that I truly did love. I love the way that Maakah came to know God as her own God and learning about her journey to get to know God and the struggles she had to get there. I also love the play on words of the theme of the title and the word Noble that woven into the storyline. If you are looking for for an escape that gives you a glimpse into what it could have been like during Bible times and remains True to the Teachings of God, the I highly recommend Noble by Mesu Andrews! I’m looking forward to getting caught up on the King David’s Brides Series and seeing where Ms. Andrews takes the series next!

Have you read Noble? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Noble to review, for letting me be a part of the Noble Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

“I will not now, nor ever, become a third wife or deny the gods of my ancestors.”

If you love Biblical fiction, Mesu Andrews is a name to follow. Meticulous research of both history and customs, faithfulness to what we know of Scripture, and a great storyteller’s imagination where we don’t, all stand out in Noble, King David’s Brides Bk. 2, by Andrews. I was amazed as I read, just how much Scripture, especially Psalms, Andrews is able to thread into the story seamlessly. There are so many truth nuggets that are shared as David and his first two wives, Nomy and Abigail, daily patiently encourage Maakah to choose the sole God of Israel over the plethora of gods of Geshur.

Kudos to Andrews for including a map and a list of characters at the front. Also for listing the Bible passages the book is based on. I have read these passages many times, but I had to re-read them with fresh eyes as I started Noble.

I found the storyline very engaging, exciting, and suspenseful. Told alternately from Maakah’s pov and David’s pov, I actually learned to care for the spoiled princess. Would she and her maid Zulat come to trust in the God of David, imperfect though he is ( six wives- anyone?) Maakah‘s father eventually promises her in a covenant marriage to David, in order to gain influence over Israel. Whose way will stubborn and regal Maakah choose? Her way and or her father’s, or David’s and that of his God, forsaking her own?

It is really neat to see how David leads his band of followers in praise, worship, and obedience to God. Though it’s easy for the idea of many wives to be a stumbling block, Scripture records that as fact. So it is very interesting how Andrews shows it could have happened, and the spiritual and emotional harmony that David may have encouraged in his home.

One point that Andrews brings out about both Maakah and David is that they were both longing for acceptance from their earthly fathers. I’d never stopped to consider this about David, but it does seem to fit in with how he is treated in Scripture. David tells a hurting Maakah, “…only Yahweh can fulfill our deepest yearnings for an abba’s affection.”

Don’t miss this exciting, fleshed out tale of David, and how Maakah may have come to be his third wife! Read Noble for the twists, the superb storytelling, and for the immense amount of Truth presented!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Yahweh uses these barren times and places to strengthen and shape us into what He wants us to become.”- David

“when we’re guided by Yahweh’s Light, He calls us to think differently. React differently. Even fight differently.”- David

“I’ve learned three things in the years since I fled Gibeah of Saul. The first and hardest lesson: I can never anticipate the LORD’s plan. Second, His plan is always better than I imagine; and third, His best for me always comes with a sacrifice.”- David

“Abba taught me to be regal, but I’m learning that being noble is harder- and better.”- Maakah

“There is only One whose love never dies. Only One whose love is stronger than an army and sweeter than a woman’s touch. Yahweh will never leave you or deceive you, my love.”- Abigail

“You and I have only this life to determine where our true allegiance lies. Will we be enslaved by earthly masters who demand more than they give? Or will we serve an almighty God who promises more than we can imagine?”-David

Reading fictionalized Biblical stories makes real life Bible characters so relatable. I learned a lot about David after my own research. He was a sinner but a forgiven sinner. He did search God for advice on what to do in situations confronting him. Princess Maakah had lots of wisdom but her best was learned after she gave up her false gods and served the true and only God. I loved how she matured over time and realized her worth in God’s eyes. I need to re-read Samuel. I like reading the research Mesu Andrews put into this novel to make it as accurate as possible. I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

Noble by Mesu Andrews is beautifully written! The style just flows effortlessly, and I was eager to remain inside the story. Noble is also well researched. I love Biblical Fiction for its historical touch and truth woven in between the pages, and I think Andrews did an excellent job of combining historical facts with creative imaginings as well.
I will say, this book was hard at times. The author was wise to say at the beginning that many people find the multiple wives subject triggering, and it can be hard to wrap our minds and hearts around the fact that David - a man after God's own heart - had many wives.
I also appreciated how the author stated that we may never know the true reason behind David having many wives, that this series is her conjecture on it, along with studies and research she has done.
I admit I am one of those who struggles with David taking multiple wives. I see why it was done in this novel, but I don't particularly care for the idea that he thought God was leading him to take each of these women as his wife. As stated, we don't know the reason why David did such, and I appreciate how the author handled it. I just didn't love that aspect. I think I'd rather think that this was an area of weakness for David.
That aside, I really did enjoy this story. It was full of great character building, and I love how it helps bring the Bible to life with examining these characters who aren't always expounded on in great detail. Like Maakah. I enjoyed getting to know her character, and all she went through really grew her too.
Her maid was just horrendous though! I know that was the point - and boy did the author write that point well. Zulot was truly awful.
I found the entire plot engaging, and all the lessons the characters learned were encouraging and I loved seeing/learning alongside them. One of my favorite quotes was this one:

"Yahweh uses these barren times and places to strengthen and shape us into what He wants us to become.”

That's so very true. Often the things that we would prefer not to experience or endure are the very things that enrich our relationship with God and grow us the most.

All in all, I very much enjoyed Noble, and can't wait for more stories by Mesu Andrews!



I received a copy of the novel from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts expressed are entirely my own.

Noble is a totally captivating Biblical novel. It's well written, and well researched, and may be pretty close to real life. I find it interesting seeing the possible reasoning for King David to have multiple wives, even though God's original plan was one wife, one husband.

Some places are hard to read, particularly scenes suggesting violence or abuse. But they are no more gory than the Bible itself portrays events. There is a rich weaving of Scriptural events, historical research, and creative imagination, which makes everything come to life.

Learning about little-known Princess Maakah of Geshur at a more in-depth level is fascinating and captivating. We also learn more about that season of David's life.

If you enjoy highly descriptive Biblical fiction I urge you to get yourself a copy of Noble. You will also want a copy of Brave. I look forward to the rest of the series!

"If we prayed only for the possible, how would we experience Yahweh's steadfast love?"

Mesu Andrews has brought to life another well-researched, enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable Biblical fiction. David's years between being given Ziklag by Achish of Gath and being hailed King of Judah in Hebron are vividly portrayed; you will be able to see God's awesome miracles, taste and smell the cuisine of the Israelites, hear the resounding praise of God by His people, and touch the wilderness David travels.
I had not given much thought to David's six wives who gave him sons in Hebron nor that he married many women but this series has given me much insight. The author postulates that David married his wives because God brought these women into David's life to help him be a worthy king and a king after God's own heart. I loved Maakah's spunky and royal first person voice. David's first person voice was not what I was expecting as a seasoned warrior and shrewd politician but it was engaging, warm, tender, and often unsure. How David loved his wives equally and how his wives became like sisters are still mysteries to me but this didn't hinder my enjoyment of the book at all. The Author's Note at the end of the book held nuggets of treasure for a Biblical history lover like myself. I am totally looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Noble: The Story of Maakah _Mesu Andrews - review

This hasn't been a easy review to write because I've been conflicted. On the one hand, I know Mesu Andrews would have prayed long and hard before writing about David and his multiple wives, without making it seem like she approved, or that she was going against Scripture and God's explicit commands.

As she makes it very clear in the introduction, she is doing neither. A mature Christian reader knows that God explicitly commanded his kings not to amass wealth or have multiple wives from pagan nations/or from within the household of faith aka Israel. It's clear from Scripture that David blatantly broke this law, and committed adultery, not just with Bathsheba but even before that, when he "married" multiple women as did the rulers of nations around him. He clearly had issues in submitting this area of his life to the Lordship of God.

However, I really wish this fact had been brought out more clearly in the novel maybe through a character who clearly cautioned David against multiple marriages and specifically against marrying a pagan princess. Instead, we have his wives and Joab rubber stamping his ungodly, lustful desire for Maakah. David's conflict is shown, but he quickly rationalizes his way out of obedience and into sin, by assuming God had brought Maakah to him to help train him in kingship. A flimsy excuse if ever there was one. Why would God use a pagan princess-wife, breaking his own law to teach David how to rule. God is the best ruler ever and he could've easily taught David himself, or through wise counsel. Marriage was unnecessary.

As the author, I wish Mesu Andrews had taken this opportunity to drive home to us 21st century Christians a few lessons, and there are plenty: God never breaks his laws, rationalising our actions is one more step on the slippery slope downwards into sin.... As a superbly capable, talented writer, it would have been easy to do without sounding didactic or preachy.

But it's her excellent skills as a novelist that saves the day. Her skilled portrayal of Maakah and her character arc from immature, naive princess to a more wise, politically savvy, maturer person is done especially well. She is portrayed as becoming a follower of Yahweh, but I wonder... especially given who her son is.

As such, while I do like Mesu's books in general, for the afore mentioned reasons, and the rather weird conclusion which I felt was just scrambled together, while the rest of the novel was planned and precise, I didn't care much for it. Sorry, Mesu.

Thank you, Mesu and Bethany House for my ARC. The opinions voiced here are my own and not influenced by any other considerations.

#NOBLE #TheStoryOfMaakah #MesuAndrews #BiblicalFiction #ChristianFiction #BethanyHouse #TheBookishPilgrim

The next novel in the King David’s Brides series, Noble, hums with brilliance that could only come from the literary mind of popular Biblical Fiction author Mesu Andrews. Instead of a typical romance, the plot features a love story filled with unconventional twists and turns. Andrews masterfully weaves a narrative of hope and struggle against a backdrop of political turmoil, tackling the complex and controversial legacy of King David and his numerous wives.

The story is rich with the weight of royal decisions and the quiet dignity of those caught in their wake. The idea of a princess marrying a man who already has multiple wives, a necessary political alliance in that time, clashes sharply with modern romantic ideals. Faithfully following scripture, Andrews refrains from condoning the actions, offering readers a chance to apply an ancient cultural understanding, enriching the narrative, and illuminating often overlooked aspects of David's wives.

By exploring the hidden flaws and vulnerabilities beneath the surface of seemingly perfect biblical characters, we find they are not flawless heroes but complex, relatable individuals whose struggles resonate with our own human experiences. This peeling back of layers reveals a more realistic and emotionally engaging portrayal. The book's exploration of Maakah's fear and grief, coupled with David's ignorance towards his royal duties, creates a vivid portrait of the mental burdens of ancient leadership and the suffocating weight of their responsibilities. The narrative portrays a sweet yet tumultuous romance, blossoming amidst the unusual backdrop of a shared marital love, complicated by tender moments and unexpected conflicts.

Filled with historical detail surrounding David’s ascension to the throne, a sense of foreboding pulses as the well-paced plot unfolds in an intriguing setting, pulling the reader forward page after page. Andrews’ straightforward writing style is always pleasing. Scripture and plenty of spiritual takeaways truly enrich the fictional journey that points back to the Bible with its authenticity. Biblical fiction fans will enjoy this series.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Noble: The Story of Maakah is the beautifully written tale of a Geshurite princess who became one of King David’s wives. It begins in 1010 BC at the time when King Saul still reigned, although David had been anointed years earlier as the future king of Israel. The story is complex and richly layered as it follows Maakah’s journey of change from a woman who disdained David and worshipped pagan gods to a devout follower of Yahweh who deeply loved and trusted her future husband.
The second installment in the “King David’s Brides” series by Mesu Andrews, Noble is based on extensive historical research and Biblical truths seamlessly interwoven with plausible fictional details. Like every book by this talented author, it is completely enthralling and hard to put down, so prepare to stay up late reading!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Bethany House but was under no obligation to write a positive review. I wish I could give it more than five stars!

Noble by Mesu Andrews is the second book in the David's Brides series - a Biblical fiction that explores the story of Maakah (who would eventually give birth to Absalom). Whilst Maakah's story is fictional, the author was able to bring to life the love of God for His people and whoever chooses to be His, David's love and dedication to God, his love for his wives and courage in the face of seemingly impossible challenges. I also loved the showcasing of David's Mighty Men in this book. I would love to read stories about them. A great, engrossing and inspiring read overall.
I got the ARC from Bethany House | Bethany House Publishers via Netgalley. This is my honest review.

Noble: The Story of Maakah is a complex look at the life of David and his wives. In the beginning of the story, we learn that David already has two wives and, if the betrothal and subsequent marriage is honored, Maakah will be David's third wife. Maakah has issues with this as she does not want to play "second fiddle" but wants to be loved as a first wife.

The story is told alternatively from the point of view of both David and Maakah. While this creates an interesting twist and allows the reader to "hear" and understand the inner thoughts of both main characters, this approach might be a bit jarring for some readers to switch back and forth. However, I did find that it helped to create a more complete picture of the life and times rather than having just the insights of one character.

I enjoyed getting to know David through the eyes of Maakah. Picturing him as a husband and father helps to bring a certain richness to what we've learned about him in Scripture. Concerning Maakah, we are blessed to see her grow and mature as she learns to give up her pagan ways and love Yahweh.

While this is a work of fiction and certainly takes some creative liberties to weave an interesting story, Ms. Andrews writes a beautiful love story that is closely tied with Scripture and very well-researched.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley and voluntarily chose to review.

I’ve read many of Mesu Andrews’ novels since discovering her books a couple of years ago, and I think this one is her best yet! Most of the time, I’m not an active participant in biblical fiction reads; this time was different. Mesu brought me into the story, and I felt as though I was experiencing it as one of Maakah’s entourage. I was fully invested and my emotions and thoughts were delightfully engaged. Mesu truly brings biblical times alive on the page.

𝑵𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆: 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒂𝒂𝒌𝒂𝒉 explores 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲 and 𝙪𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮 and is thoroughly researched and wonderfully presented biblical fiction.

Disappointed after broken engagements, Maakah bat Talmai soon discovers that a marriage to Israel’s next king, seen by many as a rebel, would be better than marriage to the royal coward her father has chosen for her. Maakah’s journey to discover her 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲 is shaped by her constant questioning. Her measuring stick is “Remember, royal blood means kingdom first - always,” and each person with whom she interacts and each situation she finds herself in becomes an opportunity for her to question who she is. I especially love the encouragement to raise our measure of integrity.

“You and I have only this life to determine where our true allegiance lies. Will we be enslaved by earthly masters who demand more than they give? Or will we serve an almighty God who promises more than we can imagine?”

David ben Jesse is also on a journey to redefine his 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲. He sees Maakah as a regal princess who’s been put in his path to inspire him to become a regal king. God saw something in Maakah that was worth working with and put her in David’s life to encourage his growth. It resulted in growth for both!

Caught between a rock and a hard place, Maakah chooses to follow her heart rather than her father’s command. She’s shocked to discover that it leads her to an 𝙪𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮- right to her enemies and leaves her heartbroken and betrayed. Rather than wallow in despair and hightail it home, she digs in and uses the experience to uncover and redefine her purpose. I love the encouragement to leave it in His hands as He sees the big picture of eternity and we can’t possibly. Allowing God to gently lead her through the experience was inspirational.

“We question everything and trust Yahweh for answers we don’t have.”

“Yahweh uses these barren times and places to strengthen and shape us into what He wants us to become.”

My biggest takeaway: the section where King David teaches about consecration. I haven’t been able to get it out of my mind since.

I’m loving this series and can’t wait for the next installment in the King David’s Brides Series.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

Biblical stories such this one really is my favorite to read.
The way this story is described I feel like I'm right there with these wonderful characters.
What a beautiful and brave woman Maakah was! I loved that she hung in there and held her own.
Here's a quote that matches her perfectly;
Maakah is more noble than any king I’ve met and worthy of truth, Lord.
It definitely was an interesting journey for Maakah.
The way Andrews describes her I felt like I've really gotten to know her so much better!
I couldn't put this book down until I finished it. I finished it at 2am in the morning.
I love a good story about David. He is my favorite King.
I'm so glad that Andrews gave us more in depth to David's life so that we might see how they lived from day to day.
5 stars from me for a job well done! I loved every minute of this book and I hated to see it end.
My thanks for a copy of this book from Interviews and Reviews via Netgalley from Bethany House.