Isaiah's Legacy

December 23, 2019
Christy Award–winner Andrews takes on the story of Judah’s King Manasseh in the enthralling second entry in her Novel of Prophets and Kings series (following Isaiah’s Daughter). Manasseh, known as the wickedest king in Judah’s history, is son of Hezekiah, Judah’s most righteous king. Told in part through the eyes of Hephzibah, Manasseh’s mother, and Meshullemeth, his wife, the life of Manasseh is one of pagan idol worship, deceit, and betrayal. At the age of five, Manasseh exhibits behaviors related to autism—obsession with a spinning toy, deep reticence studded with outbursts—and is named co-regent with his father. As he ages, Meshullemeth, who he becomes betrothed to, is used as a pawn by her evil Assyrian-influenced uncle to get close to Manasseh and draw him away from Yahweh. The plan works, with Manasseh allowing idol worship and child sacrifice after he becomes king. However, the redemption prophesied by Isaiah, Hephzibah’s father, eventually occurs when Manasseh returns to Yahweh. Andrews handles the evils of these Old Testament tales with care, never avoiding the original stories, but also making clear the motives of Manasseh. Christian readers interested in the stories of the Old Testament will want to check out this exciting tale.