This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
The Testament of Mariam by Ann Swinfen is a beautiful story with a distinctive voice that will haunt readers for a long time after finishing this book. The story takes you back in time with Mariam reminiscing about her youth and how it was to be the sister of Jesus and engaged to Yehuda. She shares stories about the problems faced by her family, her brother's death, and other struggles she undergoes while growing up. The story throws insight on how Mariam is promised to Yeshua's (Jesus’) best friend, Judas and the betrayal that happens. The book makes us feel sad for Mariam and Judas, and one feels a strong compassion for these three characters; Mariam, Judas and Yeshua.
It is a hauntingly beautiful story taken from biblical events that will keep readers glued to the tale. The author's interpretation of biblical events gives a unique perspective to the story and the characters will make readers question the truth in the biblical tales they have read earlier. The narration is detailed and the portrayal of characters and the way the story evolves and progresses will draw you into the book. The style of writing is exquisite with some wonderful imagery. The author has done good research and the book does not sound preachy at all. Without looking at the historical angle, the story will still fascinate readers with its strong heroine, her heart-breaking choices and sacrifices. The plot also throws a different light on the gospels. It is a story that will fascinate both Christians and non-Christians alike.
