Review: "A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story" by Jill Eileen Smith

Jill Eileen Smith, one of the best Biblical historical fiction writers, has again written an unforgettable saga. This time she tackles the story of Hannah, Samuel’s mother. She brings Hannah to life by filling in details of her life based on the brief mention of her in 1st and 2nd Samuel. She allows you to get a glimpse into the life of the people of ancient Israel, especially the women. Hannah’s story is particularly poignant because she is barren. Although her husband, Elkanah, loves her deeply, due to family pressure, he takes a second wife, Peninnah, to beget an heir. Although Peninnah has many children, she is jealous of the love Hannah receives from Elkanah and makes her life miserable. Through graciousness, a loving nature and a strong faith in God, Hannah perseveres and is blessed with Samuel and is showered with many additional blessings.

Ms. Smith tells her tales in the third person, in chronological order. This makes them easy to follow and appreciate. It allows her to fill in a multitude of details that help to not only communicate a story but allows one to experience it. You can almost feel the warm breezes and smell the food that is cooking over the fires. Her characters are also well developed. You strongly sense Peninnah’s animosity towards Hannah. Hannah’s love of God and faith also are very evident even in her heartache.

I strongly recommend this book for readers of all ages. Ms. Smith’s strong faith allows her to bring life to whichever biblical woman she chooses to write about. Although they are fiction, they are based on Bible stories that become alive with the everyday aspects supplied. Once you have read one of her books, you will become hooked and want to read them all.