Jewel of the Nile

Title: Jewel of the Nile

Author: Tessa Afshar

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

Genre: Biblical Fiction/Historical Fiction

Synopsis:

Whispered secrets about her parents' past take on new urgency for Chariline as she pays one last visit to the land of her forefathers, the ancient kingdom of Cush.

Raised as an orphan by her aunt, Chariline has only been told a few pieces of her parents' tragic love story. Her beautiful dark skin is proof that her father was Cushite, but she knows nothing else. While visiting her grandfather before his retirement as the Roman official in the queen's court, Chariline overhears that her father is still alive, and discovering his identity becomes her obsession. Both her grandfather and the queen have reasons for keeping this secret, however, and forbid her quest. So when her only clues lead to Rome, Chariline sneaks on the ship of a merchant trusted by friends.

Theo is shocked to discover a stowaway on board his vessel and determines to be rid of her as soon as possible. But drawn in by Chariline's story, he feels honor-bound to see her safely to shore, especially when it appears someone may be willing to kill for the truth she seeks.

In this transformative tale of historical fiction, bestselling author Tessa Afshar brings to life the kingdom of Cush and the Roman Empire, introducing readers to a fascinating world filled with gripping adventure, touching romance, and a host of lovable characters--including some they may recognize from the biblical book of Acts.

My Review:

Jewel of the Nile is a powerful book of healing and life-changing messages. This is the second book that I have read by Tessa Afshar and look forward to reading more.  Her writing is engaging, her characters are relatable, and the faith elements are naturally weaved into her writing. She writes Historical Biblical fiction and does an excellent job of bringing life into the stories and even the most obscure characters.

“All her life, Chariline had been told two things about her father: that he was dead, and that she was never to mention him.”

Jewel of the Nile has a lot to offer: engaging characters, light romance, mystery, drama, heartache, healing, redemption, well-developed storyline, doses of humor, the spiritual theme of surrender (my word for the year), moments that will bring you to tears and so much more. 

“The problem is that when you are flesh-driven, you cannot be Spirit-led.” 

While fiction books are more about entertainment, this book has so many teachable lessons and quotable quotes that will leave you thinking long after you finish the book. There is an amazing depth to this story that will leave you hungering for more.  

"You are not God's mistake, Chariline. You are his glory."

There were two things that I did not like about this book. The first thing I did not like about the book was the beginning. It felt like a bit of a slow start and I struggled with keeping up with what was going on. Once I got it sorted out I enjoyed it. The second thing that I did not enjoy was the unclearness of who particular Bible characters were. I would have liked the explanation that is at the end of the book to be at the beginning of the book so that it is clear who is who, if that makes sense. For me, it is easier to sort out that way. I am not talking about the obvious characters like Priscilla and Aquilla, but the lesser-known ones. 

I would recommend this book to those who love historical fiction. I would also recommend it to those who like Biblical fiction and other works by Tessa Afshar. I would not recommend this to those who are looking for a light, fluffy story, this is a deep book with lots of messages.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to give a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★/5