A DEEPER WELL by Jill Eileen Smith, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

 Ancient Historical Biblical Fiction Retelling of the Woman at the Well, for Fans of The Chosen

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Based on the Biblical story of the Samaritan Woman at the well, the author draws on research into the customs of the day and area. While the Samaritans were separated from the Jews, they worshiped the same God and carried many of the same traditions. This story starts out as Nessa, claimed to be the most beautiful woman in Sychar, has just become of marriageable age and has to abide by her father’s decisions. She is painted as a victim of the times, being given in marriage to several men who either died or had her put away. The author made me care for Nessa and sympathize with the situations she was experiencing.
 

The redemption comes when Jesus travels with his disciples to Jacob’s Well. The story shows how much Jesus cares for the individual. Nessa has had many husbands but has never found a man who loves her for who she really is. Jesus shows her just such love even though He reveals her sins to her. I like that the author expands a bit on the story when the Samaritans ask Jesus to stay with them for two days. She postulates that He taught them through parables which seems entirely possible.
 

Nessa’s repentance causes her to joyfully tell her whole community about Jesus. Her surrender to God’s will results in something far better than the consequences of her past.
 

The author deftly portrayed how Nessa was bound in sin and tradition and how she was lifted up when she listened to the Master’s voice.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Her broken heart thirsts for acceptance and love that seem out of reach--until an encounter at the well reveals what her soul truly longs for.

In ancient Israel, soon after Nessa is of marriageable age, her father gives her to a wealthy widowed friend, capitalizing on her beauty to bring in the highest bride-price he can find. Nessa is devastated, as she had begged to marry Lavi, who returned her love and saw more in her than her appearance. Nessa's betrothal leads to Lavi's departure, compounding her grief, and she can never forget her forbidden first love.

Nessa tries to accept her fate, but after only a year of marriage, tragedy hits her new family. She is sent back to her father, who quickly finds a young man who wants to marry the most beautiful woman in Sychar. Misfortune follows Nessa as she is passed from one marriage to the next--until she meets an unusual Jewish rabbi at the town's well one afternoon, and her life is forever changed.

Jill Eileen Smith weaves a historically and biblically rich narrative of the New Testament story of the woman at the well. Bringing a fresh perspective of faith and redemption, this biblical-era fiction is perfect for fans of Mesu Andrews, Tessa Afshar, and The Chosen.

Revell Publishing, February, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy A DEEPER WELL at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House