"Powerfully Emotional"

Before I picked up this book the only thing I knew about the "Song of Deborah" was it had something to do with the bible, but that was all. Not being a scholar of biblical studies I did look up to see what it was all about so I could have some background to go with Ms. Sorter's fictionalized story.

In researching what I discovered was very sketchy as little was known about this pivotal individual who lived in 12th century BC. Her most significant accomplishment was guiding General Barak in leading the Israelites to a victory as accounted for in Judges Books 4 and 5. She was venerated as being the force behind the voice of Yahweh that guided them to that victory. Before embracing Yahweh, she was a priestess who worshiped the pagan god Baal. Her accomplishments aside, for a woman to have been so respected during these times was nothing short of a miracle.

What Sorter did was take what facts she had about the life of this extraordinary person and develop an amazing first person account of the woman behind the legend. With well- written prose she breathed life and passion into her fictionalized portrayal of Deborah. With well developed dialogs and a vivid portrayal this reviewer was presented with a confused, scared, yet strong young priestess who rebels against tradition. Wanting to grasp one bit of happiness for herself she chose a different path than what was prescribed, and with that choice changed the course of history. You live her life experiencing her joy, her many regrets and the bittersweet love for cousin that led to the destruction of both their families. Instead of trying to interpret the oftentimes-obscure readings from the bible, the author rewrites the legendary story into one the lay person can understand and enjoy from Devorah's perspective. This was an incredible read both emotional and powerful that I can highly recommend.

Marilyn Rondeau, RIO -- Reviewers International Organization

Reviewed by Marilyn Rondeau
Posted July 8, 2006