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The Secret Chord

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Book Brief

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Geraldine Brooks

The Secret Chord

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Israel • Iron Age

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Secret Chord by Geraldine Brooks follows the prophet Natan as he chronicles the life of biblical King David, exploring his rise from humble beginnings to establishing a prosperous kingdom, while portraying his deeply flawed character through relationships and pivotal events—including his adultery with Batsheva and the resulting familial and political turmoil. The book depicts multiple instances of rape, including graphic accounts of nonconsensual sex and humiliation.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.9

25,579 ratings

64%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Geraldine Brooks' The Secret Chord masterfully reimagines the life of King David, blending historical fiction with lyrical prose. Critics applaud Brooks' evocative storytelling and extensive research. However, some feel the narrative pace falters, making parts sluggish. Overall, the novel is a compelling exploration of a legendary figure's complexities.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Secret Chord?

Readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, biblical narratives, and character-driven stories will be captivated by Geraldine Brooks' The Secret Chord. Fans of Anita Diamant's The Red Tent and Madeline Miller's Circe will appreciate Brooks' meticulous research and vivid storytelling.

3.9

25,579 ratings

64%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

David

The protagonist who begins as a shepherd and becomes the king of Israel, known for his beauty, musical talent, and complex nature as both a warrior and a man of contradictions.

The narrator and a prophet who serves as David’s conscience, starting as a passive observer and evolving into a proactive character who shapes the kingdom's destiny.

David’s nephew and chief commander, characterized by his straightforward nature and unwavering loyalty, often providing a foil to Natan’s more introspective character.

The first king of Israel and David's early antagonist, depicted as a tragic figure whose reign parallels David's and is marked by the impact of mental illness.

David’s third wife and counselor, who navigates the male-dominated society with wisdom and helps guide both David and Natan before her untimely death.

Shaul’s son and David’s first great love, noted for his bravery and loyalty, but remaining a largely enigmatic figure in terms of personal complexity.

David’s first wife who endures significant suffering due to patriarchal power struggles, ultimately maintaining her sense of autonomy by refusing David’s love.

Initially portrayed as the object of David’s desire, she later emerges as a strong figure who moves past her initial helplessness and plays a key role in the kingdom’s politics.

The son of David and Batsheva, whose future is prophesied to bring a peaceful reign, known for his compassion and intelligence which become evident from an early age.

David’s eldest son characterized by his malicious nature, whose actions cause significant turmoil within the royal family.

Another of David’s sons who seeks power and ultimately becomes an antagonist in the latter part of the story, known for his intelligence and impatience.

David’s daughter who initially appears joyous and kind, but whose life changes dramatically due to familial conflict and power dynamics.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Israel • Iron Age

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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