7:00 PM Wednesday July 8 2026
Peeling away the myth to bring the Old Testament’s King
David to life in Second Iron Age Israel, Brooks traces the arc
of his journey from obscurity to fame, from shepherd to
soldier, from hero to traitor, from beloved king to murderous
despot, and into his remorseful and diminished dotage.
The Secret Chord provides new context for some of the best-
known episodes of David’s life while also focusing on others,
even more remarkable and emotionally intense, that have
been neglected. We see David through the eyes of those who
love him or fear him—from the prophet Natan, voice of his
conscience, to his wives Mikhal, Avigail, and Batsheva, and
finally to Solomon, the late-born son who redeems his Lear-
like old age. Brooks has an uncanny ability to hear and
transform characters from history, and this beautifully
written, unvarnished saga of faith, desire, family, ambition,
betrayal, and power will enthrall her many fans.
Meet in the church library at 7:00 PM on Wednesday July 8 to join in the discussion!