An Editorial Book Review is a professional, objective evaluation of a book. It can be placed on the book's cover and the description at online bookstores.
Before publishing, I was fortunate to receive an amazing editorial review from The Prairies Book Review.
Historically compelling, wholly engrossing; a page-turner.
Set in AD 35-37, Kelly’s latest novel is a fascinating blend of historical accuracy, raw emotion, and spiritual enlightenment. After Stephen’s murder, Susannah finds refuge in Caesarea and struggles with matters of love versus her obedience to God. Meanwhile, Joanna must test her faith amidst grief and potential loss as she petitions the emperor for protection.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a world where faith, courage, and resilience intersect, shaping the destinies of the characters and influencing the course of early Christian history.
Through a blend of historical accuracy and creative storytelling, Kelly brings to life the experiences of her characters, including Susannah, Joanna, Mara of Clopas, Clopas, and Maria among others, shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering faith.
Themes of empowerment, redemption, and the transformative nature of belief infuse the narrative, providing modern readers with a poignant reflection on faith and identity.
"A remarkable tale affirming Christian egalitarianism that will captivate, provoke, and inspire readers on an unforgettable journey through the origins of Christianity."
This fall, I submitted this novel to ReaderViews and they released their editorial Book Review this month.
Since it is a longer review, I include some excerpts:
One of the best things about this book is how it makes the Bible’s accounts feel fresh. It reframes traditional stories by focusing on the women’s experiences and contributions, challenging previous interpretations. The issues and emotions unearthed... are surprising, and make for a rich and thought-provoking reading experience.
The author’s understanding of the historical and cultural context is also evident and lends a raw realism to her arguments. Her strong egalitarian beliefs shine through, a particularly important message in our divisive modern world. The addition of LGBTQ+ characters adds further layers of diversity and complexity, making the book relevant to contemporary audiences. It ties past historical struggles to modern discussions about inclusion, identity, equality, and above all, fairness.
The women navigate a pluralistic society, struggle with their own emotions, and face the pressures of governing authorities that affect their lives and their daily decisions, narrowing their own choices. At the same time, they must contend with the men around them—fellow followers who, though equally committed to serving God and welcoming early adopters of the striking and culture-shifting message of equality—still don’t quite know how to apply it, and often fall back into cultural norms.
Amidst the seriousness of the author’s message—that of equality and the very real consequences of ignoring it—there is also at times a lightness, as well as welcome vignettes into the daily world of the story’s time.
“Because She Was Called” is a deeply thoughtful work that invites readers to critically examine women’s roles in religious and social history. It doesn’t just ask important questions——it pushes readers to think deeply about them, making it a relevant and meaningful read for today’s world.
Reflections:
As I write, I am constantly learning how to strengthen my storytelling, engage the reader with conflict and high stakes, and develop the character's goals and motivations. ReaderViews suggest this novel would appeal to those interested in history, culture, and theology. If you want to spread the word of a story that imagines equality in the early church, please consider posting an online review or telling your friends about this book.
Like the female main characters in my novels, I push against gender boundaries. Why? Because I am called.
Jesus brought a striking, culture-shifting message of equality. He taught women as disciples and gave women and men the Great Commission. Jesus didn't change Roman rule; he changed individual's hearts.
Apostle Paul shifted culture by commending female co-workers, helping Lydia, the first European convert, to found and lead a church in Phillippi. He honoured Phoebe as a deacon and a patron of many, including himself, and entrusted her to deliver and explain his letter to the Romans. Paul honoured Junia as outstanding among the apostles. He asked Apphia to lend her support when he requested Philemon to forgive the runaway slave, Onesimus, and treat him as an equal brother. Paul didn't change the nation's laws; he changed hearts.
The early church opposed patriarchal cultural norms. It became hierarchal when it partnered with national governments to gain power.
What is at stake when the Christian church partners with the government? We could see male patriarchal hierarchies enforced. We could see LGBTQ+ outlawed.
I don't want to see laws to change what people believe. That's not how Jesus affects change. I want to change people's hearts. Jesus brought a culture-shifting message of equality and Paul spread it far and wide. I have encountered obstacles from Christians when I assert the equal worth and freedom of every believer. My goal is to show that the Bible empowers women and LGBTQ+ as much as it empowers white heterosexual men. We are all equal in Christ.
Paul asserts this equality in his letters. I describe how a traditional male reading may misquote or misconstrue Paul's writing.
Just have a look at some of my Bible Studies on Paul's letters:
Other books of the Bible also promote equality, showing concern for empowering women by teaching them and comforting them:
Will you join me in this quest to change people's hearts?
You will enjoy knowing that you are on God's side.
Elaine Ricker Kelly Author is empowering women with historical fiction about women in the Bible and early church and Christian blogs about women in leadership, church history and doctrine. Her books include:
Forgotten Followers from Broken to Bold, Book 1 (2022)
The Sword A Fun Way to Engage in Healthy Debate on What the Bible Says About a Woman's Role (2023)
Because She Was Called: from Broken to Bold, Book 2, A Novel of the Early Church, imagines Mary Magdalene's trip to testify before the emperor (2024)
Walk with Mara on Her Healing Journey: 21 Steps to Emotional Resilience (2024)
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