Review: "Crimson Cord" by Jill Eileen Smith

This is impressive Biblical fiction about the life of Rahab. As a beautiful young girl, Rahab was given in marriage to a strong young warrior, Gamal. At first he appears to love her but when she seems barren, he turns to gambling, drinking and other women. Because of his cruelness and extensive gambling debts, both are sold into slavery. He is sold to foreigners and she is forced to become a prostitute for the king’s advisor and the wealthy men of Jericho. When two men from Israel show up at her door, she realizes they are spies. She figures this could be a way out of the life she loathes and agrees to give them information in return for the sparing of her and her family when Jericho falls. Her life begins anew with the people of Israel and she must learn to live again.

The information in the Bible about Rahab is very sparse, only a few verses, but Ms. Smith does a marvelous job of weaving a spellbinding tale. The main characters are well thought out and the storyline is mesmerizing and will keep you turning pages. In addition to the physical storyline, there is also an emotional theme as Rahab struggles with her past and the feelings of worthlessness it evokes. She must learn to forgive herself and others must learn to forgive her.

I had heard of Rahab and even read the passages, but this book brings her story to life. This is written to be enjoyed by both young and old and is a wonderful example of the difference women made in ancient Israel. If you are a fan of Biblical fiction, you definitely should pick this up.