I found this novel to be rather dull and monotonous. There was virtually no character development, which was a disappointment as it left David and Bathsheba as two-dimensional characters in a book rather than as historical figures brought to life.However the biggest issue I had with this novel was that it was written as if David and Bathsheba were aware that they were biblical figures living in Old Testament times. This quote from historian David McCullough gives a great perspective about historical figures:"One might also say that history is not about the past. If you think about it, no one ever lived in the past. Washington, Jefferson, John Adams, and their contemporaries didn't walk about saying, "Isn't this fascinating living in the past! Aren't we picturesque in our funny clothes!" They lived in the present. The difference is it was their present, not ours."Although this novel was set in the much more distant past, I still feel as though this quote applies. I do not feel that it was very realistic that David and Bathsheba lived their daily life in such a religious context. David was a ruler of a kingdom during turbulant times and he was a warrior, not a priest. The focus of this novel seemed to be from a religious perspective rather than a historical. I would have preferred more of the latter. I loved this book! I have read several works by this author and am constantly amazed at her ability to bring these lesser known characters to life so vividly. The history that is woven in makes the stories that much more enjoyable and paints a picture which make the setting and characters real, tangible and not a stuffy painting in some gallery. There are no halos nor are there excuses made for deeds long past; simply people with dreams, desires (both good and bad), and mistakes the same as any living hero or heroine might have.
What do You think about Bathsheba (2011)?
I am loving this series! I only have one left to find and read!
—mjoyce
