A woman with a devastating secret. A man bent on proving his worth. A chance encounter that catapults them into the heart of history.When the daughter of a prominent Roman general meets a disinherited Jewish immigrant, neither one can dream of God’s plan to transform them into the most influential couple of the early church. Nor can they anticipate the mountains that will threaten to bury them. … bury them. Their courtship unwittingly shadowed by murder and betrayal, Priscilla and Aquila slowly work to build a community of believers, while their lives grow increasingly complicated thanks to a shaggy dog, a mysterious runaway, and a ruthless foe desperate for love. But when they’re banished from their home by a capricious emperor, they must join forces with an unusual rabbi named Paul and fight to turn treachery into redemption.With impeccable research and vivid detail, Daughter of Romeis both an emotive love story and an immersive journey through first-century Rome and Corinth, reminding readers once again why Debbie Macomber has said that “no one brings the Bible to life like Tessa Afshar.”
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First century Rome comes alive in Tessa Afshar’s wonderful story of broken people whose lives are transformed through faith in the risen Christ. I quickly came to love Priscilla and Aquila and the other characters who were drawn to them and became their family.
When you find an author that shares her talent and gift of writing you don’t want the story to end. “Daughter of Rome,” by Tessa Afshar is the story of Aquila, Priscilla, Paul, Rufus and God’s plan to transform the early church. Priscilla, the daughter of a Roman general meets a Jewish immigrant, Aquila. Their courtship is followed by murder and betrayal. They work to build a community of believers while a runaway boy and a foe complicate their lives.
There are many lessons in the book, one is that we should all be like Priscilla. She never gave up when they were forced from their home. The determination, forgiveness, mercy, love, willing to put aside those who wronged her, to take in those that are lost who do not have a relationship with Jesus. To literally be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Tessa has done it again!!! “Daughter of Rome,” will leave you looking for more. Jesus uses the struggles in our own lives to make something beautiful.
I received this book free from the author and her publisher in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
As with all Tessa Afshar novels, I find myself at a loss for how to explain just how much I adore Daughter of Rome. This novel is exquisite. It is a beautifully deep and complex story. There is so much spiritual goodness contained in the pages of this novel I find one read is definitely not enough. The plot of Daughter of Rome is highly engaging, so much so the pages flew by! The characters are superb. Afshar did an outstanding job bringing Priscilla, Aquila, and Paul back to life. These are people I would love to personally converse with today. Can you imagine that conversation?! I also enjoyed how Afshar depicted 1st-century life in Rome and Greece. The crowded marketplaces, the wealthy homes of the Senators, the degradation of the rough city streets, the bathhouses — I was truly transported back in time. Afshar did her homework with this novel as the research is impeccable and quite enthralling. And, I love Afshar’s discussions about faith, love, and forgiveness. Afshar knocked this one out of the park; Daughter of Rome may be her best novel yet!
Priscilla is one of the most selfless and kind characters I’ve ever read. She is a role model for today’s women. If we had 1/10th of Priscilla’s selflessness as described in this book, our world would be a much better place. Throughout the novel, Priscilla is constantly squirreling away food. She only ever eats half of her meals, and she does this so she can save up food to give away to people less fortunate than her. In addition to being selfless, she is also incredibly wise. One day, gathered in a small group to discuss the Scriptures and Yeshua, Priscilla states, “The more we study, the more I realize it’s not so much about understanding or knowledge. Faith is trust. Trusting our future and our past into Yeshua’s keeping. Learning that the Christ is the beginning and end of all our needs.” What beautiful truth! Too many times our relationship with Christ is defined by how much we’ve memorized from the Bible. But how is the condition of our hearts? If we lost everyone and everything today would we cling to God in faith or raise our fist at Him in anger and fear?
Faith — real, genuine faith — means trusting Jesus with our entire lives. It means putting our lives, our loved ones’ lives, our finances, and our futures into God’s capable hands and saying, “Alright, Lord. I’m yours. Your will, not mine, be done.” It was such a blessing to me to watch Priscilla live out her beautiful faith in Daughter of Rome. It was quite inspirational, really. I long to live strong and sure in my faith. I know I have a lot of work to do in my life to get there, but Jesus is worth making the changes and putting in the hard work to be less of me and more of Him. Jesus is worth me losing what I don’t need so I’ll rely on Him more. He is worth pain, suffering, and weeping. He is worth my joy, love, and happiness. He is worth my everything!
Daughter of Rome is a 2020 must-read! It’s a story that will stick with me long after the final page has been read. I absolutely adore this story and cannot recommend it enough. Purchase a copy today. It will leave you with so much love for Jesus you won’t be able to keep from overflowing in His joy and thanksgiving.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via her publisher, Tyndale House, through NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
DAUGHTER OF ROME
Tessa Oh my world you have blown my mind away again , I loved this book in all shade and depth. First of all, I love and have always been intrigued by Pricilla and Aquilla, so much so that when I was younger, I proposed that if I had twins I would name them as such… lol.
The story of Pricilla and Aquila and though fiction it opened up the vast depth and possibility of what and how they impacted the spread of the gospel and how they discipled the church in Rome and Corinth.
This book had so much depth and to it that to uncover it would be pages. I will highlight some thoughts that resonated deeply with me.
*How pride in knowing God or false righteousness is shown us when we have to express to others compassion or judgement
*The angle of shame and guilt and how Rufus broke down the real reality of the sacrifice of the cross and its potency.
*I am grateful that Pricilla was an example of a teacher and leader in the early church, for she has paved a way for women to peachers and teachers in the church.
I connected to
*Pricilla – I understand what shame and guilt can do, I connected to her heart for mercy and purity
*Mary- her motherly kindness and heart of love
*Rufus – His depth and understanding of the love of Yeshua
*Paul – His contagious excitement about the gospel and Yeshua.
*Aquila – His patience, kindness and he is so secure in God that he encouraged Pricilla to teach and lead.
I was so excited to see Theo from Thief of Corinth…. Tessa please we want his story…
I love these characters and how the author made them come life.
Tessa Afshar is simply a master at telling biblical fiction! This beautiful story illuminates the little known but important story of Priscilla and Aquila. I love how Tessa brings to life the characters in the Bible. A story of immense grace with tender reminders of all that God has done for us woven in an romantic, inspirational tale.
Priscilla is the daughter of a Roman general, but after his death her stepbrother relegates her to the status of slave. She is allowed to live on the property, but not in the elegant home. She cooks her own food and does her own laundry. She has no slaves to do her bidding. She has begun attending a synagogue. She clings to the words spoken. Her heart is stirred and her soul longs for fulfillment. She has a secret that plagues her with guilt and shame. Some in the synagogue speak to her about the Messiah. Could He be the one to quench her thirst?
Aquila has not been in Rome long. He and his uncle are starting a leather-working business. This is not the life Aquila had planned for himself, but his refusal to disavow the Messiah has cost him his inheritance. He is a Jew and is attending the synagogue when he spies a beautiful Gentile woman seated in the back. He is introduced to her, but as she is a Gentile he thinks she is not of his status. How wrong he is proven to be! She shows her faith in all she does with compassion, self-sacrifice and many hours of laboring love. Aquila is convicted, repents and has his heart stolen.
As usual, Tessa Afshar has written a novel of historical biblical fiction that gives readers a look at what the lives of real biblical people could have been like in ancient times. I have read all of her novels and find them to be interesting and entertaining. I always learn something of ancient life, culture and times that I treasure. She has an ability to weave fact and fiction together to make a well-crafted story to please any reader. I especially applaud her faith-filled stories depicting people from all walks of life who have encountered God and His Son and the resulting transformation. I look forward to her next novel and seeing where I will meet Jesus Christ in the pages!
My local book club chose to read Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar. As expected, the novel was well-written. I found the characters both likable and relatable, especially Priscilla. Though the story was fully developed as it is, I think I would have been happy to read another 200 pages of these wonderfully interesting characters and their beautiful character growth.
I loved how Tessa Afshar used Daughter of Rome’s characters and their situations to breathe new life into spiritual truths. In a gentle and refreshing manner, she addressed topics such as forgiveness, trusting God, and more. One of my favorites quotes occurred on page 315: “The spiritual treasures that belong to you are vast, Son. The ability to speak to Yeshua. To hear from him. To help others through your prayers. To love rightly. … An endless trove of worthy treasures has been set aside for you.” I marked many passages and our book club had abundant topics to discuss.
Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar is a stand alone novel though two characters from Thief of Corinth do appear in minor roles. I recommend Daughter of Rome to any one who enjoys Biblical fiction. My husband read this book and enjoyed it, so its appeal is not limited to women.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
A well-researched, immersive read about the early church, filled forgiveness and new beginnings.
Priscillia is a Roman citizen, who from outward appearances seems to live a life of ease, but her life is more difficult than it appears, and she harbors a secret that weighs on her soul.
Aquila is a leather worker along his uncle, not always a tradesman he forsook much to follow Christ. Jewish by heritage he is taken with Priscilla and her kindness to others.
A compelling and poignant read, that shows the early church and the lives changed by Christ. I loved how this book did an excellent job of showing how Christianity really shook up the culture, making enemies family in Christ. Well researched, this book skillfully navigates life in Rome and Corinth, and how it may have been experienced differently by different members of society.
I loved how this book shows love in more than just the first blush of romantic love, but also the enduring love, and the love that binds us together in Christ.
This was a very satisfying read, with many threads finding their home throughout. One of my favorite characters was Marcus, who brought spunk, hope, and wisdom along with him. I also loved how Priscilla and Aquila had many true, supportive friends that became family to them, which I strongly related to as I have some Christian friends that are closer than family because of our shared faith. I also loved seeing Theo again, still hoping he’ll get his own story–Pretty please? A well layered read, with excellent character development, strong well focused themes of faith that reached deep. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
What a fascinating book! The only disappointment was the book ended! The author was again weaves known biblical and historical facts with everyday life of the period, that of the early church. Tessa also, in this book, brings in the trauma of abortion and infertility, but with great sensitivity.
From the Bible we know that Pricilla and Aquilla were tentmakers who knew and worked with Paul – but how did that relationship come about? The author has woven a wonderful book that explores every day living in 1st century Rome, the start of the persecution of the early church, and seeing Paul as a friend and mentor, as his words are woven into the dialogue of the book. There is also mystery and intrigue, grace and forgiveness. I just wanted the book to keep on going! I received this book from the publisher. I am freely writing a review – all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the first Tessa Afshar book I have read, and I will not hesitate to pick up another one of her biblical fiction novels. Her detailed accounts of life in Rome and Corinth bring to life the ancient cities mentioned so often in the Bible. The amount of time spent in research is evident on every page.
The challenges of the early church and it’s leaders are the key to the plot. We meet not only Priscilla and Aquila, but also Paul, Claudius, and many other figures mentioned in the Bible. The love of God and his redemption available for all was a new and difficult concept for the people of that time to understand. The sins and struggles the characters faced in “Daughter of Rome” reflected those of today, with many of the characters seeking forgiveness and receiving it. Proof that God and his redemptive power is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
If you’re a diligent Bible reader or if you’ve been around the church long, the names Priscilla and Aquilla aren’t new to you. In Romans, Paul calls this couple “my fellow workers in Christ.”
In Daughter of Rome, Tessa Afshar puts skin on these two people and tells their story. From Priscilla’s life in Rome to her life in Christ and Aquilla’s family’s rejection because of his faith, Afshar takes readers on an emotional journey.
This book centers on the quiet kindness of Priscilla as she goes about serving others in her community. She uses her connections to both minister to the hurting and to some of the more influential members of her community.
Fans of Francine Rivers’ Mark of the Lion series will enjoy Afshar as she walks readers through the every day life of two members of the early church.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you in advance to the author, Tessa Afshar, and JustRead Publicity Tours for providing a complimentary advance review copy. A positive review was not required. All words and thoughts are my own.
As many know I am not a historical fiction reader. I tend more to romance and suspense. For romance – think along the lines of the Love Inspired books from Harlequin or Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove Series.
On the suspense line – the Love Inspired Suspense line, Natalie Walters, Colleen Coble, Kathy Harris, or Lynnette Eason. Those are my type of reads. Occasionally I do tend toward other types. But, Historical Fiction is hit or miss.
“Daughter of Rome” is the FIRST Biblical Fiction novel I’ve EVER read, let alone owned. This is something my mother might be more interested in.
Yet, something in this novel drew me to it.
In World History, I was taught about the Roman Empire with only MINOR details on the Christian and Jewish parts.
This book highlights the impact the Jewish people felt from a Roman Emperor’s edict, along with the love story of Priscilla and Aquila. In addition, Afshar also depicts the division within the Jewish community – those who believe Yeshua (Jesus) was the promised Messiah, and those who do not. Without stating it directly in the novel, this story hints at the rise of Christianity as it does mention following “the Christ”.
It is that belief that gets Aquila disowned by his family (even his betrothed) and he ends up in Rome with his uncle. And, it is in Rome where he meets Priscilla; a Gentile; when they are attending synagogue.
I found it fascinating that it was often considered unclean for Jewish people to eat with Romans. Yet, some Jewish people didn’t mind. As they set aside their differences, they find they are VERY much alike.
This is a BEAUTIFUL love story; and a way for those unfamiliar with history to seek it out and learn from it. Afshar’s writing is beautiful. Publishers Weekly praises the author – “Afshar again shows her amazing talent for packing action and intrigue into the biblical setting for modern readers”.
That isn’t far from the truth, especially for someone like me who has NEVER read a biblical fiction novel. Anyone looking at my Goodreads or Bookbub profiles would know that.
While I got it last month as part of a social media takeover tour, I didn’t have time to read it until I caught up with a few “time-sensitive” obligations. But, I did intend to read it as soon as I possibly could.
While I was deeply interested in the story, I was hesitant at first to read it. After all, the notion of “Biblical Fiction” was, at first, intimidating. I didn’t quite know what to expect.
I was in for a surprise – a very good one. This was definitely a book I didn’t want to put down. Realistically I had to though.
It was intriguing, educational, heart-breaking, beautiful, and captivating. The characters were beautifully and realistically written.
This novel had attempted murder, a murder mystery, a love story, faith, forgiveness, and second chances. Also, redemption was a huge theme in this. All of this worked together so beautifully and believably.
As Debbie Macomber pointed out – “no one brings the Bible to life like Tessa Afshar”. And, this feels very life like with Afshar’s vivid and descriptive writing. I could visualize each scene. This was written as if it were a movie on television.
As it is a “Biblical” story, and “Biblical” fiction – there will be heavy talk of faith, talk about Jesus (Yeshua) and God (Yahweh). For those looking for only a “Roman”/Historical type read without the religion, it might be best to pass this by.
For those who enjoy the story of the bible, Jesus, God, and history – I HIGHLY recommend this book.
Just a side note: Given the entire Roman Empire/Jewish/Christian dynamic of the time; it is fascinating that the Vatican is in Italy. Also, Christianity emerged in Roman Judea as a Jewish religious sect in the 1st century AD.
Daughter of Rome is biblical fiction at its best! Author Tessa Ashfar tells the story of Priscilla, believed to be a Gentile, who was converted to Christianity and worked tirelessly to spread God’s Word. Priscilla and her Jewish husband Aquila don’t receive a lot of mention in the New Testament but their importance cannot be denied. In her end notes Ashfar explains how she determined that Priscilla might have been from a noble Roman family and why she chose to include both historical figures and fictional characters to create this story. Bible scripture confirms that Priscilla and Aquila saved Paul’s life, they worked with him to spread the Gospel message, and they set up churches in their homes in three different cities; the fictional characters and events that are included have been added for creative interest.
Priscilla and Aquila are both fascinating biblical figures but it is Priscilla who claimed my heart. Through much of this story, Priscilla doubts that she has truly been forgiven of a past sin that still haunts her. As deeply as she loves Yeshua, as strongly as she believes that He will forgive, she continues to have a “tiny root of guilt”. And, then, as she is reassuring another distraught woman that total forgiveness is possible, Priscilla finally feels it for herself. “Her own sin. Her own failure was no match for Yeshua’s love. She was washed clean, utterly. Utterly. She felt the root wither. Die.”
This is a beautiful story of love between a man and woman but it is also a story of the overwhelming love that a man and woman share for their God. One a Jew, one a Gentile, but together, they worked to tell others of His goodness.
Daughter of Rome is wonderful biblical fiction filled with faith, forgiveness, and redemption. It is a book that I will read again and I recommend it highly!
I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation to write a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.
This was a fantastic biblical fiction novel. This story was based on Priscilla and Aquila who helped Paul. This showed that a Roman and a Jew could marry and become Christians together and help bring others to Christ. I love how Tessa Afshar can bring people from the Bible that are just referenced and give them a whole life and great characteristics. I could not wait to see how all these characters lives intertwined and ended. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
If it’s possible to start the year out by finding your favorite read for the whole year, that might have just happened. At the least I can guarantee that it will make my favorites list. I don’t even think I have the words to do this story justice. Incredible!
One thing that I felt was very well done in this novel was the shock and leeriness surrounding the sudden freedom for Jews and Gentiles to be brought to the same table of fellowship. Living in today’s world, it’s hard for us to understand how scandalous it all was at the time. Tessa Afshar did a beautiful job of bringing the reader into the world of the early Church and giving them a glimpse of just how big of a deal it was. It wasn’t just about Jews and Gentiles coming together though, it was the wonder of Jesus and the cost of following him. There’s no question that faith in Jesus radically changed lives, but it often came at a steep price. It turned siblings against each other and caused children to be disowned by their parents. It divided spouses and friends. Faith in Jesus was not a comfortable choice but a huge, life-altering decision.
I also cherished the depth of the relationships in this novel. There was encouragement, forgiveness, iron sharpening iron, teaching, admonishing, etc. As a reader you see just how much Jesus changed people and how hungry they were to know more of him. It was refreshing to see such a thirst for spiritual things.
Another thing I loved was that Priscilla was used as an instrument by God just as much as her husband. They complimented each other well through their own unique giftings and talents, and God used that in mighty ways. Priscilla wasn’t silenced because of being a woman yet was still respectful of her role. The dynamic between Priscilla and Aquilla was encouraging to see.
I absolutely LOVED this read. I can’t say enough amazing things about it and I can’t recommend it enough. If you don’t have a copy yet go get it. This isn’t one you want to miss!
*I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
“The only way to peace is by learning to accept, day by day, the circumstances and tests permitted by God. By the repeated laying down of our own will, and the accepting of His as it is presented in the things which happen to us.”
This was one of my favorite quotes from Daughter of Rome. Tessa Afshar’s talent for creating fictional accounts around Biblical characters amazes me! Her writing style always draws me in and I’m always excited to see where she takes the story. In Daughter of Rome, Ms. Afshar takes the little we know about Priscilla and Aquila, and turns it in to a wonderful story about what it might have been like for Christians as the church was just starting.
This storyline kept my interest the entire time. It had some twists and turns that I did not see coming. I loved the theme of forgiveness that ran throughout the story. The characters are what made me really love this story, though. I loved how Paul was portrayed and Aquila and Marcus were amazing. I am hoping to see a story about Marcus soon! But, My favorite character, by far, was Priscilla. She beautifully showed the love of Christ. She was so giving and helpful – I loved her character.
I was not ready to see this story end. I really wished there would’ve been another chapter or two or an epilogue. I can’t wait to see what Tessa Afshar brings us next.
Daughter of Rome, by Tessa Afshar, is a stunning example of how thrilling Biblical fiction can be! As equally fascinating as it is moving, this novel is profoundly thoughtful and utterly enjoyable. With threads of history, romance, faith, and mystery, Ms. Afshar skillfully weaves a story that is truly compelling and utterly uplifting.
From the ancient historical setting, to the intriguing characters, to the fascinating plot, Ms. Afshar presents a story that is wholly satisfying! Within the homes and neighborhoods of first century Rome and Corinth, the story captivates as it draws the reader back in time to experience a culture and a civilization from long ago. Living under the constraints of cultural and religious expectations, the characters strive to honor God with their choices, their attitudes, their obedience, and their acts of compassion. As they dedicate themselves to sharing the Gospel message with their friends and neighbors, they find that they must face their fears, address their insecurities, pursue redemption, renew their hope, and nurture their faith all while the threat of persecution looms dangerously over them.
As the gripping story unfolds, relevant themes of forgiveness, grace, courage, faith, and compassion are explored. These themes enhance the novel and ensure that it is thought-provoking and meaningful. Very well-researched and carefully written, it is a novel that uplifts and inspires while it also entertains.
Daughter of Rome is certainly a special book! A pleasure to read, an experience to savor, and a book worth sharing, it is definitely a novel I can recommend wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher through NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
A great story of early Christians
Daughter of Rome is an intriguing account of what the lives of Priscilla and Aquila could have been like. I was very interested in seeing the research that the author did to determine what type of environment they likely grew up in based on what we know from Scripture.
Aquila experienced firsthand the consequences of choosing to follow Yeshua. Not willing to deny his faith, he was disowned and lost his earthly inheritance.
Despite having been treated abominably by her brother, Priscilla treated others with kindness and compassion. One of my favorite moments in the story was when Marcus, a young boy Priscilla and Aquila took in, was helping minister to a woman who had come to them in terrible condition. When Priscilla questioned him about where he had learned to take care of someone like that, he replied “Don’t you know? I learned from you.”
I especially loved the way Priscilla was always caring for those in need, even at great cost to herself. She was constantly taking in “strays” and sharing all she had with them.
Another part I really enjoyed was when Aquila was getting ready for their wedding. He was so sweetly funny as he stressed over details and was so absent-minded!
There were many spiritual lessons learned along the way. Aquila had to learn to set aside his pride several different times. Priscilla learned forgiveness – for herself and for her enemies. Salvation was boldly proclaimed.
If you enjoy Biblical fiction, you are bound to enjoy Daughter of Rome.
Read my review of Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Tessa Afshar’s writing has a way of making me feel more connected to the events of Biblical times. As I read this particular book, I understood a little bit more what daily life might have been like for the believers in Rome. I enjoyed reading about their sharing Christ’s love and caring for each other in tangible ways. I also appreciate the research this author puts into her books. This is not quite the backstory that I would have initially imagined for Priscilla. However, the themes of Christ’s love for us and His grace and forgiveness came through beautifully in Priscilla’s story.
I enjoyed reading about the romance between Aquila and Priscilla. In the Biblical account, there seems to be a strong partnership between them, and Tessa Afshar did a great job of including that in this book. The only small caution that I would have for some readers is that the author gives us a couple of glimpses of private married intimacy between them. It’s appropriately handled, and fits in well with the theme of God’s grace and forgiveness in Priscilla’s life. I just wanted to make the reader of this review aware that it is there.
I enjoyed this book and its strong emphasis on loving others as Jesus loves them. Even though this story is set in Biblical days, there are principles that can apply to us today.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.