Writing Rejected has been both rewarding and deeply challenging. This novel confronts a devastating global reality—human trafficking—and seeks to tell the truth with honesty, compassion, and hope.
As readers prepare to experience the story, I believe it’s important to acknowledge the difficult themes this book portrays. While Rejected is a work of fiction, it reflects circumstances that are tragically real for millions of people around the world.
Why These Warnings Matter
Rejected reimagines the biblical story of Hagar through the lens of modern sex trafficking in Mexico. It is not a light story, but it is a necessary one.
Many readers in my community come from a faith-based background, and I wanted to approach this subject matter with both truth and tenderness. The novel does not sensationalize trauma, but it also does not look away from it. The goal is to honor survivors’ experiences while holding space for readers who may find the content emotionally heavy.
If you are sensitive to topics of abuse or exploitation, I encourage you to take care while reading. Step away when needed. The story is meant to shed light, not cause harm.
The Story Behind the Story
The biblical narrative of Hagar is brief yet powerful. Scripture tells us that she was “an Egyptian” and a servant in Sarai’s household (Genesis 16, 21). Beyond that, her early life is shrouded in silence.
Some Jewish traditions imagine Hagar as an Egyptian princess given to Sarai, while others see her as a slave or handmaid. In every interpretation, her story is shaped by systems of power beyond her control, yet Hagar becomes the first woman in the Bible to receive a direct promise from God, and the only person who gives God a name.
Because Scripture leaves her beginnings untold, Rejected offers one possible reimagining of what her life might look like if she lived today. In this retelling, that silence becomes the story of a modern woman trapped in the cycle of trafficking and exploitation, searching for freedom, faith, and identity.
It’s not the only interpretation, but it’s one way of asking how her voice still speaks to us now.
Content Advisory / Trigger Warnings
This novel contains sensitive and potentially triggering material, including:
* Human trafficking and modern slavery
* Child sexual exploitation
* Prostitution
* Sexual assault and forced sexual experiences
* Emotional abuse and trauma
Reader discretion is strongly advised.
If you are a survivor or someone affected by these issues, please know that this story was written with great care and respect. Its intent is not to retraumatize, but to bear witness and to help readers see those who are too often silenced.
A Story of Seeing and Being Seen
At its heart, Rejected is not about despair. It’s about resilience.
It’s about the God who sees, even when the world looks away.
If certain passages are difficult to read, that’s understandable. My hope is that you’ll also find moments of strength, compassion, and redemption woven throughout.
Thank you for trusting me with your time, your heart, and your empathy.
📖 Rejected by Elizabeth Simon
🕊️ Book Two in the Margins of Genesis Series
📅 Releasing Black Friday 2025
Leave a comment