Martha’s story is too often held over our heads as proof we should worry less and pray more. Though we could all benefit from such advice, I’ve always thought we’re too hard on Martha. So, when I was given an opportunity to read Up From Dust, Heather Kaufman’s novel about this misunderstood lady, I jumped at the chance.
Book Description:
Martha of Bethany is no stranger to adversity. After her mother’s untimely death, Martha shoulders the responsibility of raising her siblings–quiet and studious Lazarus, and wild and rambunctious Mary. She finds solace in friendship and the beginnings of first love, but just as Martha begins to imagine a new future, hardship strikes again and her dreams crumble into dust.
Ten years later, Martha’s friend pleads for the new teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, to come and heal her husband. When Martha discovers that the carpenter-rabbi is connected to her past, she’s not sure she can trust him with her future. But as he continues to perform miracles, the invitation to believe becomes harder to resist, renewing Martha’s hardened heart, even as she faces an unknown future.
My Review:
4 1/2 Smiles! 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 1/2
Heather Kaufman’s novel reaches into the depths, pulling out joy and hope, sorrow and loss. I was absolutely delighted when Martha’s tortured heart found peace. Up from Dust: Martha’s Story is a ray of hope for every Martha who seeks and follows Jesus.
I loved reading Heather’s work because she writes very much like I do—as if she lived in the town of Bethany with Martha, Lazarus, and Mary and KNEW them personally. (CLICK HERE for a downloadable list of my books.) Heather makes a reader feel as though she herself has worked alongside Martha in the dusty courtyard. She’s run with her down grassy hills. She loves the people of Bethany, felt betrayed by some, and wholly loved by others. And, now, I’ve experienced all those things, too, because I became so engrossed in every page, every paragraph and sentence.
Reading is seldom an emotional journey for me anymore. I’m often watching for craft issues and/or distracted by too much thinking and not enough feeling while I read. Up from Dust: Martha’s Story grabbed my heart from the very first chapter and wouldn’t let me overthink anything. I found myself sobbing several times and later laughing aloud. It was a delight to endorse this gorgeous novel, and I can’t wait for the next installment of this series! You’re going to love Martha’s story!
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Short Bio:
Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Reviews for writing “a charming and well-crafted tale” (Loving Isaac). CLICK HERE to find out more about Heather and her books.
