Star of Persia (Book Review)

By Benjamin H. Liles

        I've read a few of Jill Eileen Smith's books and every one of them are beautifully well-written stories. So, it comes as no surprise that Star of Persia: Esther's Story is as wonderful as her other works. In this version of Esther's story, she meets Vashti, the wife of Xerxes, as a young girl and is told by Vashti, "You have a place in history" more or less. Just as we're told within the pages of the Bible about Esther, her story here is just as perilous.

          Many years later Xerxes is planning to attack and subdue Greece, a feast to honor as well for his Queen, Vashti. But she refuses to come when he calls on her. Incensed he listens to his princes and puts her away to find a wife better suited for him. In that sense, it reads somewhat like One Night with the King, but not completely close. Smith's version of the story is a bit more harrowing. Mordecai hears of a plot to kill Xerxes, of course, but some times things change. Overall, I have to say I loved this book.

          I have to strongly praise Smith's efforts in retelling a story that has been re-told a few times. The dialogue is fresh and new. You get a sense for and of places she describes, as well as bringing to life some very complicated characters. Would I recommend this book to others? Hands down I would. With all of that said I end with these words, as usual; I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest review.