“A Notable Woman” Receives Acclaim from US Review of Books

(Isstories Editorial):- Los Angeles, California Nov 12, 2025 (Issuewire.com) – The US Review of Books has awarded “A Notable Woman” by Don Anderson a RECOMMENDED rating, praising its historical fidelity, rich detail, and compelling retelling of an overlooked biblical story.

Inspired by the unnamed Gentile woman from 2 Kings, Anderson names her Marta and imagines her journey with striking realism. Set in 835 B.C. in the land of Canaan, Marta is portrayed as a bold, audacious young woman thrust into a loveless marriage. Despite betrayal and hardship, she exhibits unwavering courage, independence, and faith. Her life is transformed by her encounters with the prophet Elisha, culminating in the miraculous birth of a son–a child who becomes her most treasured companion until tragedy strikes.

The US Review of Books commends Anderson’s work for its historical authenticity and literary strength, noting that the author’s attention to foods, fashions, and daily life of the ninth century B.C. provides readers with vivid immersion into the ancient world. The review highlights the novel’s “realistic portrait of a loveless marriage” and applauds Anderson’s ability to convey sympathy for both Marta and her husband, making their relationship dynamic and compelling rather than one-dimensional.

Unlike many authors of biblical fiction, Anderson avoids easy archetypes and instead presents Marta as a hero in her own right–resilient, wise, and unafraid to defy cultural limitations. With sharp detail and emotional nuance, “A Notable Woman” offers a powerful reimagining for readers of historical and biblical fiction alike.

Source :Olympus Story House

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