On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman // Review

My Review: 

A highly compelling novel of Salome, the mother of James and John, as she watches the trajectory of their lives and her own change as they follow Jesus, whatever the cost.

Ms. Kaufman has outdone herself with this masterpiece; she makes her characters so compelling and raw, relatable in their humanity. Salome grew up in a difficult home with a grieving father; she struggles to fit in and comparing herself to the achievements of others. As she marries and becomes a mother to 2 sons, she still carries similar worries along with those of her son's futures. I liked seeing James and John as they might have been through the eyes of their mother, as well as Jesus and his earthly ministry. 

 Beautifully written, the author does an excellent job of establishing the context of the culture, I felt like I learned so much along the way. I liked how the story made me understand the fears and false hopes of the past, and how His disciples had counted the cost and stepped out in faith to follow Him. I think one of my favorite parts was seeing how so many people's lives were visibly changed by meeting Jesus, from those with a single encounter to his disciples, Salome and her family as well. 

 A powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and faith. Each of the stories in this series have touched my heart and inspired me, but this one has topped them all, and I don't know how Ms. Kaufman keeps doing it! A wonderful addition to the series, that stands strong on its own as well. A standout novel, and one of my favorite reads this year. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Shield of the Mighty by Connilynn Cossette // Review

My Review : 

Tasked with the difficult job of gathering an army and finding skilled artisans for Saul, Zevi finds himself in a tough spot when the town of Maresha denies Saul's kingship. 

Yochana is a gifted perfumer and young widow, who finds herself taken and unexpectedly thrust into Zevi's plot against the Philistines. 

An action packed and engaging novel, set in a time period not often explored in Biblical history, early in Saul's reign. Zevi and Yochana both have compelling backstories, and I liked their enemies to friends arc. This is an excellent addition to the series, with strong themes of faith, trusting God, and using our gifts to serve others. 

Engaging read, with a compelling plot, plenty of character growth, and good relationship development. Wonderfully immersive, well researched, and I couldn't put it down. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Royal Artisan by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

A sweeping tale of intrigue, mystery, and new beginnings in the courts of Queen Esther. 

Sazana labors as a potter under Haman, harboring a secret that could cost her life. But when Hama loses his position, many find themselves living under a new tension as they await the decreed attack on their people. Meanwhile, Sazana's life is endangered by a secret that followed her from Babylon to Susa, can she trust the man who betrayed her in the past to help her find answers and keep her safe?

Engaging from the very beginning, the characters pull you into their lives, bringing to life the tension filled time in history vividly, through the author's well-crafted prose. Sazana is a gifted artist, with a mind that is always innovating and finding new ways to stretch and grow her craft. Jadon is a dedicated and devoted servant of the queen, I like how he quickly sees that Sazana needs his help to find answers and quell the threats against her, he doesn't hesitate to help keep her safe. Well-developed characters, evocative descriptions, and a well-paced plotline, as well as extensive knowledge of the cultural practices and time period. 

Compelling storytelling, that comes to life between the pages, imagining what life might have been for the Jewish people awaiting the fateful day that had been decreed. This story has it all, mystery, intrigue, second chances, romance, and strong cords of faith woven throughout. I didn't want to put it down. Highly enjoyable biblical fiction that can be read as a stand-alone, but there's no reason to not read the companion novel The Queen's Cook as well! Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Noble by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

Promised as a bride to a rebel king, Princess Maakah of the Geshurites, finds herself drawn to David and his strange God. 

Maakah is a princess who was taught how to rule and raised to sit on a throne. When she meets David's family, she witnesses the power of Yaweh, and finds herself drawn in despite everything in her upbringing bring contradicted. She is young, knowledgeable about things beyond her years and experience, yet still untried and open to learn about David's God. I liked how the book shows David as a young warrior, building his renown, a man close to God, but still very much a human man prone to human failures. He is devoted to his people, and I liked also seeing flashes of his shepherd past in his style of leadership. 

An engaging read that asks many deep questions and finds Maakah and David grappling with their callings and how God provides through unconventional ways with blessing despite our shortfalls. This novel explores David's time in Hebron, and the making of a king. Rich in historical as well as cultural context, it was compelling to see Maakah encounter God through the lens of her pagan roots. 

Overall, a gripping read that deals well with difficult topics and shows God's great power and mercy to those who would call on His name. It also tackles the rise of King David and the shaping of his legacy, in a manner that makes you think about things in a new way. Engaging, and compelling Biblical fiction! 

 
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Pharisee's Wife by Janette Oke // Review

My Review: 

A young woman's journey to faith, as the wife of an ambitious pharisee bent on discrediting Jesus. 

Realistically set during the time of Jesus's physical ministry on earth this story does a great job of showing the culture and attitudes of the time, especially in regard to women. Mary is a young bride, pulled out of her simple life because of her great physical beauty to be the wife of a young pharisee, Enos.

My heart went out to young Mary, who quickly has her name change to Simona, leaving behind everything she knew for a cold husband, with nothing but ambition on his mind. She is a kind spirit, curious about the teacher who is healing many, and earning the devotion of her servants quickly. It is a sad story in many ways but also infused with hope. 

Overall, a story of hope and resilience set in Biblical times. Heartbreaking at times, but a good representation of the time period. Well written novel of faith from one of the pioneers of Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Before the King by Heather Kaufman // Review

My Review: A powerful story of hope, love and restoration. 

Torn apart by tragedy and married out of convenience, Joanna is curious to learn more of a mysterious teacher who preaches of a coming kingdom and holds the power to heal. 

A moving and evocative tale that explores the time that Jesus walked the earth through Joanna, a woman mentioned briefly in Scripture as a woman who supported the ministry of Jesus from her own means. Joanna is a beautiful woman, who has suffered a great deal of loss, while her family seeks to position themselves well among society. Her story is brought to life, as we see her go from a uncertain young woman to a devoted follower of Jesus. I could feel her heartaches, through the emotionally rich storytelling, and strong character arc throughout. 

This is the kind of story that sucks you in from the very beginning and doesn't let go until the final page is turned down. I was quickly drawn into the life of Joanna and that of the people surrounding her. I especially liked the unique point of view, that the story explores. 

Overall, a compelling and well done work of Biblical fiction, with wonderful attention to accuracy and detail. A gripping novel, with well developed characters, and a powerful message of faith, hope, and love. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Voice of the Ancient by Connilyn Cossette // Review

 

My Review: 

A compelling new chapter in Cossette's Old Testament Saga that stands well on it's own, but is also a wonderful addition with familiar faces that you will recognize if you have been following along. 

Avidan goes with his cousins to fight with the newly anointed Saul, but a rift separates him from his cousins and instead his path crosses with that of Keziah, who is escaping an unwanted marriage. Together can they face the challenges before them and trust in the Mighty God who brought them together?

A well crafted novel set in the tumultuous time right after Saul is anointed king over Israel, I loved how the author brings this time period to life, showing the division and disunity of the times. Keziah has a beautiful horse, I loved his loyalty to her and protective nature. Avidan is a faithful friend, and I liked seeing how he matures over the course of the book, recalling the histories of his people and sharing it with others. 

Overall, this was a well done Biblical novel about a time period that I don't think I've often seen tackled in fiction before. I liked how the author brings to life the times through fictional characters, so that we can imagine what life might have been like for the Israelites. Engaging and well written, with captivating characters, plenty of adventure, romance and faith. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

An immersive novel that brings Queen Esther's Court to life through the eyes of a talented cook, kind physician, and the queen herself. 

Beautifully written, compelling, with characters that captured my heart. Roxannah grew up hiding in the shadow of her father's cruel ways, but her talent for flavor may be her family's only hope after her father leaves them destitute. I admired her determination, and her loyalty, as she works to prove her self in the royal kitchens. I especially liked her gentle natured way of winning others with honesty and kindness. 

A richly woven novel with evocative descriptions and an attention to detail that brings the story to life. I loved how the novel was told in the midst of things, as well as from memory looking back, which added a depth of personality to the storytelling, and a unique touch. I loved the fresh take on one of the Old Testament's most beloved stories, as the author draws from extensive research, and historical details to vibrantly bring the court to life. I enjoyed the themes of standing up to your enemies in the face of opposition, something that sounds good, but in reality is much harder to practice!

Overall, a riveting and compelling tale that will grab you by the heartstrings, and have you hanging on to find out what happens next, as Queen Esther's story is told through fresh eyes, with enduring themes of forgiveness, faith, and facing your fears. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3ZA4PWr 

Brave: The Story of Ahinoam by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review:

A compelling and intriguing look at David's life while on the run from Saul, and that of the first wife he took in Hebron. 

A compelling and intriguing look at a time in David's life not often focused on in fiction, I liked how the author imagined that time on the run from Saul, and the possible reasoning behind him taking multiple wives, as well as the cultural landscape. Ahinoam is strong and stubborn, raised by a father abandoned by his wife, she learned to wield the weapons of her father's trade. She is a young woman finding her path, she struggles with doubts and questions of worthiness in the face of her marriage to David, and his taking on another wife. The story is told from broth David and Ahinoam's point of views, has good interactions, and character development.

The author did a great job navigating the difficult subject of David's multiple marriages, and while it was a little odd in my contemporary frame of mind of a Christian marriage, it did happen and he did have multiple wives, and there were consequences later on. 

I liked seeing David as a young man fighting for his throne and becoming a revered leader among his men and his people. I also enjoyed seeing his deep friendship with Jonathan, and deep desire to please God.

Overall, an excellent read full of intensity, faith, suspense, as well as parts that challenged me. The author did an amazing job, pulling from the text to create a compelling portrayal of Ahinoam and David during that time. A compelling read from beginning to end!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Sisters of Corinth by Angela Hunt // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

 

Book: The Sisters of Corinth (The Emissaries: Book 2)

Author: Angela Hunt

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: May 21, 2024

”Angela Hunt takes her craft to new heights–and depths–as she fully immerses us in the lives and struggles of first-century followers of Yeshua.”–Tamera Alexander, bestselling author on The Woman from Lydia

When the new provincial governor arrives in Corinth, the esteemed Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus, father to Mariana and Prima, is delighted. He sees a golden opportunity to propel himself to greater power and fortune by uniting his and the governor’s households through the marriage of one of his beautiful unwed daughters to the governor’s firstborn son.

Yet complications quickly arise in Narkis’s own family. Mariana, his stepdaughter, holds steadfast faith in Yeshua, rendering her hesitant to marry a man devoted to the Roman gods, despite Narkis’s urging. On the other hand, Prima, his daughter by birth, yearns for a life of wealth and status and is willing to go to great lengths to secure a marriage that fulfills her desires–even if it means betraying Mariana to do so.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A riveting read that brings to life the ancient Roman world, and the powerful strongholds that came with living in a pagan society in the early days of the church. 

Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus has a plan to raise his status by marrying one of his two daughters to the new provincial governor, Prima longs for the opportunity, while Mariana is a follower of Yeshua and has no interest in marrying a man who worships the Roman gods. A gripping read that brings the early church in Rome to life vividly, I was so inspired by their strong faith, and willingness to stand against the popular culture, even if it meant their lives. 

Mariana is a faithful Christian, and daughter, I liked how she did her best in each challenge that came her way, holding to her faith. It was harder to read Prima's chapters because of all the awful things that she did to Hester and Mariana. But I also really admired Hester, for her gentle way of living her faith. 

Overall, an engaging read, full of faith, that brings a very real time in the early church to life. A riveting drama with characters that you can cheer for throughout!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

  Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela’s novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine’s Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

More from Angela

Hello!

Thank you for helping me kick off the book tour for THE SISTERS OF CORINTH. This book is the second in my Emissaries series, but don’t worry—it reads like a stand alone.

The series features Gentiles who became believers in Christ through the ministry of Paul. The first book was about the woman called Lydia who lived in Philippi, and this book is about two step-sisters who lived in Corinth, the “Vegas” of the Roman Empire. What happened in Corinth stayed in Corinth, if you get my meaning, and there was a LOT going on in that pagan city.

I couldn’t help but think of Cinderella’s story as I wrote the opening of this book. The novel begins when the two sisters hear about the new governor coming to Corinth. He has a handsome and eligible son, and Narkis, the head of their family, is determined that one of his daughters should marry him. Prima is like her father, power-hungry and pretentious, while quiet Mariana is a believer in Yeshua. There’s a great deal of primping and preparing, scheming and scowling as the banquet draws near, and you’ll never guess which daughter the young man chooses—or maybe you will.

I hope you enjoy THE SISTERS OF CORINTH and thank you so much for taking part in this book tour. I am so grateful!

Always,

Angela Hunt

Blog Stops

Inspired by Fiction, June 19

Lots of Helpers, June 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 21

Devoted To Hope, June 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 22

Texas Book-aholic, June 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 23

Batya’s Bits, June 24

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 25

She Lives To Read, June 25

Stories By Gina, June 26 (Author Interview)

Dee S White, June 26

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 27

Lily’s Corner, June 27

Bigreadersite, June 28

Cover Lover Book Review, June 29

The Lit Lady, June 30

Holly’s Book Corner, July 1

Pause for Tales, July 1

Labor Not in Vain, July 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Angela is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of The Woman from Lydia and The Sisters of Corinth and a $15 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2c069/the-sisters-of-corinth-celebration-tour-giveaway

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

Chariline has always been curious about her mysterious heritage, raised by her aunt she has heard bits and pieces of her story, but longs for the truth. When she gets the opportunity to seek answers in Rome she stows away on a ship, but finds herself followed by someone who doesn't want her to find the answers she seeks. 

A touching story of friendship, family, and faith. I loved reuniting with Theo from a previous book, and how he and Chariline brought out the best in each other, both seeing the true value in the other person. 

A highly enjoyable read, I loved how all the pieces started to come together as the suspense grew. A heartfelt and engaging story, with a twisting storyline that kept me on my toes. So happy to see Theo again in this story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Up From the Dust: Martha's Story by Heather Kaufman // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Up from Dust: Martha’s Story

Author: Heather Kaufman

Genre: Biblical fiction

Release Date: January 23, 2024

Martha of Bethany is no stranger to adversity. After her mother’s untimely death, Martha shoulders the responsibility of raising her siblings–quiet and studious Lazarus, and wild and rambunctious Mary. She finds solace in friendship and the beginnings of first love, but just as Martha begins to imagine a new future, hardship strikes again and her dreams crumble into dust.

Ten years later, Martha’s friend pleads for the new teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, to come and heal her husband. When Martha discovers that the carpenter-rabbi is connected to her past, she’s not sure she can trust him with her future. But as he continues to perform miracles, the invitation to believe becomes harder to resist, renewing Martha’s hardened heart, even as she faces an unknown future.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Heartfelt and thought provoking, Ms. Kaufman tells Martha's tale with a fresh perspective that both tugs at the heart and gives hope. 

A riveting novel, I loved how it follows Martha through her formative years into her adulthood, and her relationships with her siblings and family. My heart went out to Martha in her hurt and pain, seeing how it shaped her, drawing her to Jesus. 

Well written, with strong themes of faith, healing, and forgiveness. A compelling tale, with a captivating and familiar protagonist. An excellent read all the way around, highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Review for writing “a charming and well-crafted tale.” She delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling. When not reading, writing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her husband and three children near their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

 

 

 

 

More from Heather

Up from Dust: Martha’s Story is the first of three books in my new series, “Women of the Way.” Each book focuses on a female follower of Christ, diving deep into her history before touching upon the events we know from Scripture. Book one is on Martha of Bethany, the sister of Lazarus and Mary.

 

Let me ask you a question: What comes to your mind when you think of Martha?

 

Busy? Angry? Worried?

 

How about: Teachable? Trusting? Strong?

 

I’m afraid we’ve distilled poor Martha down into a personality type, turning her into a cautionary tale for Christian women. When Scripture as a whole presents a much different picture.

 

The seed of this story was planted in my heart during an Easter sermon in 2016, when I was startled into a deep admiration for this remarkable woman of faith. “Why haven’t I been encouraged to be more like Martha?” I wondered. Martha . . . a woman who learned from her mistakes and took the living God at His word. A woman who confessed Jesus as the resurrection and the life while her brother was four days dead in a tomb. Her trajectory in Scripture from worry to radical trust is one to emulate and it led me to ask: What happened in this woman’s heart?

 

In Up from Dust, I linger over Martha, imagining what her life was like before Christ. The story traces all the “many things” that worried and troubled Martha’s heart and the Christ who pinpointed her pain, met her in the midst of it, and lifted her up. We watch Martha come of age as she works through her mother’s death and the heavy responsibility of raising her siblings. We journey with Martha as she experiences first love and learns to shoulder the mantle of womanhood, even while coping with a father who is stuck in his loss. When grief comes to Martha’s own heart, she is presented with a choice. Will she cling to her hurt more than to Adonai, the way her father has done? Or is there a better way forward?

 

May this story encourage you to remain openhearted even when life feels unbearably hard, to pin your hopes to Jesus, the only One able to lift you up from the ashes of grief.

 

While you read, consider listening to the Up from Dust playlist! It’s full of inspirational music that ties into the themes from the book. Give it a listen HERE. Happy reading (and listening)!

 

Surrendering with you to Him,

Heather

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 27

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 30

For Him and My Family, March 31

The Lofty Pages, March 31

Splashes of Joy, April 1

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 2

She Lives To Read, April 3

Cover Lover Book Review, April 4

Artistic Nobody, April 5 (Spotlight)

Labor Not in Vain, April 6

Mary Hake, April 6

Holly’s Book Corner, April 7

Pause for Tales, April 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Heather is giving away the grand prize package of a $15 gift card to Amazon and a paperback copy of Up from Dust!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2aa71/up-from-dust-martha-s-story-celebration-tour-giveaway

In Feast or Famine by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

An engaging read, rich in historical detail, that brings to life the time of Joseph's influence in Egypt and his marriage to an Egyptian woman. 

A well written read, that imagines what might have been during Joseph's time in Egypt. I liked how the author really dove into the time period, as well as exploring his conflicts with the culture around him and even in his own marriage. Asenath's heart is softened as she gets to know Joseph, I liked that she was also vulnerable and open to learning more about his God. 

Definitely thought provoking and made me appreciate how he stayed true to his beliefs despite living in a culture that was counter. Well written and engaging, with strong themes of faith and forgiveness. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

 Buy it here: *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Peasant King by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

A stirring  adventure with a courageous heroine, set in the world of The Hidden Prince.

A brilliant companion to Ms. Afshar's The Hidden Prince, that can also be read as a stand alone, bringing back beloved faces while introducing new ones. This book brings ancient history to life in vivid form, I loved learning more about a time that I was previously pretty ignorant about, and it was fun understanding the intricacies of that empire.

Jemmah is a strong and courageous heroine, like her mother. I was touched by her determination to fight for the ones she loved, despite her own weaknesses. Asher is a brilliant innovator, I liked his friendship with Keren and how he is protective of Jemmah. 

This is a riveting historical read that pulled me into its pages from the very beginning. I loved how the book showed God's hand throughout the reign of a Persian king, and in the tiniest details of our lives. A captivating, and entertaining read from beginning to end, filled with pieces of wisdom to treasure. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3qYi18q   

*As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Apostle's Sister by Angela Hunt // Review

My Review: 

Aya is a talent singer, who longs for more than marriage and children. A marriage is arranged for her to a scholar, Avidan, who moves her to the bustling streets of Jerusalem, close to her brother Sha'ul. 

A compelling Biblical novel, I liked how it follows Aya, Sha'ul, and Avidan through the years. Jerusalem is full of unrest with the Romans pushing their control, while Yeshua and his followers are bringing division. Aya grows into her role as a wife, and I liked how she reads along with her husband, as well as her determination to make a home for her son in hard times.

Well written novel that brings to life the time period, with the tensions between the Jews and the Romans, and the way that Yeshua fulfills the promises of the Old Testament. A beautiful story of hope in the days of the early church. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

 Buy it here: The Apostle's Sister by Angela Hunt 

 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Hannah: Mother of a Prophet by H. B. Moore // Review

My Review: 

A beautiful fictionalization of Hannah's story, and later Samuel's rise to High Priest of Israel. 

Engaging and heartfelt re-telling of Hannah, mother of Samuel. Beautifully telling of her heartache and great faith, I admired Hannah so much for how she bore Peninnah's cruelty while her own heart was aching so. The author does a great job of capturing the longing and heartbreak in Hannah's life. 

Only the first quarter of this book tells Hannah's story though, and I was happily surprised to read about Samuel and his struggles in the house of Eli, as well as the story of a beautiful young woman tainted by her father's sin. 

Overall, a compelling and rich read that brought one of my favorite Biblical heroes to life in an even more heartfelt way. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Potiphar's Wife by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

A gripping drama of a Cretan Princess thrust into a marriage of convenience to Pharaoh's most trusted friend, she longs for her homeland while struggling to find a place among the Egyptians. 

A fictional novel of redemption and faith. I found this book to be an engaging read that explores the characters of the people typically remembered as the villains in Joseph's story. Well researched, this book brought the contrasting cultures to life, I loved how Ahira and Joseph showed love to Zuleika, and despite it all I found myself grudgingly rooting for the anti-hero. 

A powerful story of redemption, belonging, and forgiveness, great for fans of ancient history. In some ways this was a more difficult read for me because I knew where it was headed, but it also took me by surprise. This book has a more mature content due to the subject matter, but I think that the author dealt with it well. I am excited to read the next book in Joseph's story. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Miriam's Song by Jill Eileen Smith // Review

My Review: 

I'll admit this was a difficult one for me to review. First off, I'd like to say that the author did the best she could with what she had, but it is very difficult to tackle one of the most well-known time periods of Biblical history, through the perspectives of the main figures while giving it a fictional flair as well. I think that the author did a great job of for the most part sticking to the text, but for me it made the book predictable and hard to get into because of the strong focus on well-known people, rather than a fictional person experiencing things alongside the main characters. 

The story is told from various viewpoints, like Zipporah and Moses' adoptive mother, as well as Miriam. It is obviously well researched, and a few choices were made on divisive details. 

Overall, this is a hard one to review, as I think that it was as well done as it could be considering the various factors at play, and I think she did a great job of being accurate to the Bible and times. But it did make for a predictable fiction read. A good reminder of God's plan at work and His mighty deeds!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

A sweeping tale of love, loss, forgiveness, and hope, against the intrigue and danger of the royal courts from Babylon to Persia. 

A riveting story, from the very beginning. I was pulled into Keren's plight as she was sold into service to pay her family's debts, finding purpose working as a scribe. I admired her honesty, as well as her quick thinking and determination. I especially liked how the chapters bounced between Keren an Jared, adding depth and insight to the story. 

A captivating read that put me through the full gambit of emotions, and I liked that it didn't shy away from asking difficult questions about pain and loss. 

Keren's young pupil is an intelligent boy with a big heart, a quick mind, and an air of mischief about him. His scenes always brought a smile to my face. 

You won't want to miss this incredible adventure, full of intrigue, faith, and love, set against the lush backdrop of the ancient world. Skilled storytelling brings to life this immersive world, drawing out powerful life-changing messages of hope and faith in this compelling read. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Order today: https://amzn.to/3cmL0el 

Rahab's Courage by Naomi Craig // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

Book:  Rahab’s Courage

Author: Naomi Craig

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: August 17, 2021

 About the Book

A scarlet cord tethers one ruined woman to the salvation of mankind.

Harboring two fugitives in a city slated for destruction, Rahab has one small chance of escape. In exchange for their safety, she bargains for her own. Their agreement rewards her courage, and she flees Jericho and a life of prostitution for a new life among the people of Israel. Never again will she have to depend on anyone—especially men.

Except Salmah won’t take the hint.

High ranking soldier and leader of the tribe of Judah, Salmah is determined not to repeat his parents’ mistakes. He will keep the Lord’s commandments. Rahab’s growing faith fits right in with phase one of his plans: find a wife who loves the Lord and settle down in the new land.

Rahab finds shelter and meaning in the Lord’s ways until her past comes back to haunt her. As her new faith is put to test, she finds herself alone. Isn’t that what she’d always wanted?

With her courage waning, only the Lord can turn Rahab’s life around again, but will He do it before she loses everyone and everything that really matters to her—to her heart?

 

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 Review:

An intriguing take on one of the most extraordinary women of the Bible. A well written read that handles the at times difficult subject matter with grace, to tell a story of love and redemption. I think that the story does a good job of imagining the struggles to fit in with a new people and tribe as Rahab and her family did, with steady chemistry between Rahab and Salmah.

A wonderful start to a new series, though at times slow in pace, I admired Rahab's commitment to leaving her old life behind. And Nathan is a good friend to both Salmah and Rahab. 

Overall, a well done debut, with strong themes of faith and forgiveness, as well as love. A great read for fans of Biblical fiction and romance. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Naomi writes Historical Fiction set in Bible times.
She lives in a small town in the south-eastern mountains of Arizona
She is an avid reader, Pastor’s wife, and homeschool mom.

 

More from Naomi

Matthew 1:4b-6a (NKJV)

Nahshon begot Salmon.  Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse,  and Jesse begot David the king.

On the brink of war and conquering the Promised Land, The Israelites stand fierce and determined, ready to see God’s victory. This time they will not waiver.  This time, obedience will be their theme. But it wasn’t always that the Israelites stood with resolve as strong as Jericho’s impenetrable walls.

Rewind forty years. The Israelites have just been delivered from slavery in Egypt. 12 spies were sent into the land and brought back a good report. There were bountiful crops peace and giants.

Nahshon, as the leader of Judah (Numbers 2:3), should have been influential in his tribe’s decision to trust the Lord—especially since Caleb one of the two who trusted, was from Judah. Yet nobody believed. They all grumbled. So instead of what should have been a quick journey, it took forty years.

And the entire generation couldn’t enjoy the benefits of trusting God and His promise.

Enter Salmah.

He sees the penalty of his father’s disobedience. It shapes his life he adheres to the ways of the Lord. Plague after disobedience hardens his resolve. He will obey the laws of the Lord so it will go well with him in the new land.

So what is a man with this moral stature doing with a Canaanite? A harlot? Every sordid detail that makes up Rahab goes against his moral fiber.

But faith.

Faith that was spoken about all the way into the New Testament. Rahab steps out in sacrificial faith to a God she doesn’t yet know, for strangers who have no reason to trust her.

As such, the Lord honored her faith. As He does when you and I step out on that limb because we’ve felt that stirring in our soul.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.

Not only did the Lord spread His mantle of protection over Rahab, He also saw fit to include her in the lineage of His Son, Jesus.

Rahab’s Courage is a love story. A story of stepping out in faith. Of changing expectations of yourself and others. Of how the Lord can redeem and use any who are willing to put off the old and become that new creation.

***The scripture is clear that Rahab is a harlot. Due to the nature of this life, this story addresses prostitution, rape, and post traumatic stress. Please use caution with younger readers and if these subjects would act as a trigger for you. If Rahab’s Courage was a movie, it would have a rating of PG-13

Blog Stops

Rebecca Tews, August 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 13

Inside the Wong Mind, August 14

Inklings and notions, August 14

For Him and My Family, August 15

Breny and Books, August 15

lakesidelivingsite, August 16

She Lives to Read, August 17

Boondock Ramblings, August 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 18

Betti Mace, August 19

Texas Book-aholic, August 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 20

deb’s Book Review, August 21

Cats in the Cradle Blog , August 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 22

Through the fire blogs, August 22

Connie’s History Classroom, August 23

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 24

Labor Not in Vain, August 24

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, August 25

Back Porch Reads, August 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 26

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Naomi is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11419/rahab-s-courage-celebration-tour-giveaway