Daughter of the Promise (Numbered Among the Stars, Book 1) by Alicha McHugh

You may be more familiar with the biblical stories of Jacob, Rachel and Leah, and of course Joseph and his coat of many colors, but tucked within these stories is that of Jacob's daughter, Dinah. Daughter of the Promise is a fictional story based on the biblical accounts of Dinah, her family and some historical research that McHugh did on Ancient Egypt. This novel, told from Dinah's perspective, is both thoroughly engrossing and insightful! McHugh eloquently paints a picture with her words, not only of a time and place but of a people that will come to life, and seem to breath along side you as you read through the pages. Though this story is one that is not new (Biblical account), McHugh's use of imagination and facts not only captivate you but bring a freshness and a deeper look at this family, and the motivators that move and impacted their lives. Dinah and her family, are not perfect people, though they follow a perfect God. They are like us, sinful; a group battling pride, hate, fear, hypocrisy, jealousy, anger and I could go on. But also like us they are a people who hunger for love, approval, purpose and belonging. 

Now for those of you, who like me, think you know how this story will play out, you may be surprised - I was! This was not the tale of Dinah I was expecting and at first that bothered me but it also caused me to do a little research and pull out my bible a time or two. At the end of the novel McHugh explains why she choose to write this story from the perspective she did. She too did her research and sought to look at the biblical facts given to her with fresh eyes and prayerful thought and research. She even goes into more of an explanation, specifically on Dinah's defilement, on her blog -posting. I would encourage you to read what she wrote! Maybe you too, might want to do more digging of your own. Or maybe you will just want to read the book alone. Either way, this is a novel not to be missed! I picked it up late yesterday afternoon and read it as time allowed, and staying up late to finish it! 

This is Alicha McHugh's first novel and she has done a fantastic job! I cannot wait to read more from this author. I encourage you to read this one and hope it fascinates you too!

(Update to this review- I was not aware when I wrote my original review, but have since discovered that Alicha McHugh self-published this novel. I have to applaud her for taking the leap of faith to do so and for sharing this story with all of us.)

*** This book was sent to me for a fair and honest review, and that my friends is what I have given you!

Blessings,