Mary Chosen of God by Diana Wallis Taylor

"Blessed are you, Mary, chosen of God."Mary is ordinary girl from Nazareth. She helps her mother with household chores, she daydreams about a handsome carpenter's son named Joseph, and at night she lies on the roof and contemplates at the stars. But one evening, a heavenly visitor comes with unexpected news; and her life is changed forever. Experience the life of the Messiah from the perspective of his mother, who must place her trust and obedience in Adonai, the Most High, as he fulfills centuries of anticipation in the middle of her daily life. Walk with Mary as she witnesses Yeshua grow, mature, minister, and even crucified; and then raised again, to the kindling of her new faith.

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My Thoughts:

This book, although actually a bit different than I expected, was quite interesting. Diana does a really good job of bringing the time period and characters to life. It was engaging to read about Mary as she heard from the angel, became wed to Joseph, and later on had little Yeshua. As he grows, and his brothers and sisters come along, Mary's life story continues.  Her relationship with God was a blessing to me. I enjoyed imagining her feelings and how awed she was to be raising the Messiah and be his mother, as well as, the things that she witnessed happening  later in his life. As you read you can feel her love, her struggles, and he emotions she must have felt.

Although, at times the story may have played out a bit different than what I personally would have imagined, I enjoyed the author's take. It was interesting to read the Jewish names and at time words were included that made the story more personal. I also, originally thought this to be a type of Christmas novel and was suprised to find that after just a few short chapters, that part of the book was over. The book actually spans the lifetime of Jesus. I also enjoyed the author's take on Jesus as a boy and how he was taken with insects, bugs, birds, and had a calming effect on those around him. There was definitely much thought put into the story. 

I would recommend this book. I received a free copy through the Book Club Network and Whitaker House to review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to review it positively. 

About the Author:

Diane Wallis Taylor is a grandmother with six grown children and 10 grandchildren. She had my first poem published when she was twelve and got hooked on writing. Then life got in the way. Now she is enjoying writing Biblical Fiction and Christian Fiction AND being published by Revell!
Find out more at   www.dianawallistaylor.com