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.”
more
Tessa Afshar has done it again, bringing the Bible to life in this New Testament biblical fiction on the life of Priscilla and Aquila. Not much is known about this couple that aided Paul’s ministry so much, other than that they were fellow tentmakers, followed Paul to 3 citites and at one point saved his life. I loved how Ms. Afshar breathed life into their story. This, by no means, replaces the actual scriptures and the author is clear to point that out. But with deep research on the culture of the time, the historical elements and what the scriptures say, this book is a well crafted “could have been” tale about these 2 vital members of the early Christian church. One thing I love about Biblical historical fiction is how it drives me to the scriptures to compare and contrast. I’ve always found this author’s work to be spot on and accept the additions to what scripture says to be fiction and consider them to be pretty solid “what if” options. It helps to bring those passages to life and help me to imagine them actually happening.
This book begins with Priscilla as a young woman, facing her greatest sin. A few years later, we find her soaking up the word of God in a Jewish synagogue, seeking to find hope in her wilderness. This is where she meets Aquila, who initially spurns her because she is a Gentile due to his rigid upbringing. This story is their love story, but it is also a greater Love story as both of them seek to further the church of the Way and delve more deeply with Yeshua (Jeusus) together. I loved the spiritual depth of this book (it was way more than just a story) and in the preaching mentioned in their home church, I felt like I was actually there attending the services. I loved the way Priscilla’s kindness brought others to Christ. I also loved (and scripture supports this) that SHE was an active participant in the ministry in a culture that women were not at all considered. There was a huge theme of forgiveness in this book and I loved how Priscilla, though initially struggling with the decision, always sought to forgive those who wronged her, and through that forgiveness, opened a bridge to Christ for those who’d hurt her. I also loved “getting to know” some of the minor characters that Paul mentions in passing in some of his letters as well and learning more about the culture in Rome and Corinth at the same time. While this is a stand-alone story, fans of the author’s most recent release prior to this, Thief of Corinth, will be glad to find out what happens to Theo in the latter part of this novel. I was so glad to see his story resolved!
All in all, this was an absolutely fabulous book, rich in history, faith and love (both lowercase love and uppercase Love). I woud highly recommend this book to any fans of historical (particularly Biblical historical) fiction and those who enjoy learning more about the time periods and people of the Bible. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Biblical fiction writer Tessa Afshar has once again knocked it out of the park with her newest novel, Daughter of Rome. This beautifully written tale transports us to the world of Aquila and Priscilla in the days of the early Christian church. It offers a plausible backstory for how this Jewish man and Gentile woman might have met and eventually grown together as the Biblical couple in Corinth who were tentmakers and active in Paul’s ministry.
The Bible gives little detail about the couple, but Afshar has done a wonderful job weaving together a plausible tale with as much historical detail as possible. It was inspiring to see the characters evolve as their relationship with Christ grew. In fact, Priscilla and Aquila, as well as the other characters in this story, are so multidimensional and relatable that it seems like they could walk right out of the pages. It is a powerful tale of hope, compassion, grace, and forgiveness that I will not soon forget.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are entirely my own, and I would give it more than five stars if that were an option!
Daughter of Rome
Wonderful and familiar Biblical characters painted with creative insight as to how their life and love story might have happened. Author Tessa Afshar weaves a creative story bringing the facts we know from scripture to life, blended with imagination, giving us a story of how it might have been for a Jewish young man, Aquila, when he encounters a gentile young woman with a troubled and secret past. Priscilla hungered and yearned for acceptance, yet did not quite belong and planned to never marry. Exciting story, so beautifully created. The characters draw me back to scripture to see how Tessa joined Biblical history and imagination so beautifully.
“It takes courage to stand your ground. Strength to lose everything, and still hold to the truth.”
I received an e-copy of the book from the publisher with no requirement for a review.
When you read biblical fiction, there are always spoilers. However, this book since this was a less commonly known character or characters from the bible, it didn’t feel that way totally.
I loved the history thinking about a Gentile marrying a Jew because of Christianity. The racial divide was pronounced and as I see this often now, with the rampant racism, this book is so applicable for today.
The message of allowing Christ’s forgiveness of your sins spoke to me, as I read about someone that had committed sin, had flaws and struggled to forgive herself. It is well written, a bit gritty at times, and wholly challenging to my faith.
I obtained this book from the publisher. All thoughts contained herein are my own.
This book is available for purchase from your local booksellers and online.
An awesome story of Priscilla and Aquila. A story of grace, of redemption and forgiveness and of second chances. A few tears were shed but worth it
Have you ever wondered what day-to-day life was like for the early Christian church? What it truly meant to become a follower of The Way in the initial years after Jesus’ resurrection? This is where Biblical fiction, when done well, can seek to take readers into the ancient world alongside the historical figures of old with their customs and etiquette, thereby facilitating a greater understanding of Scripture. Granted, this is no easy task, and although Biblical fiction is one of my favorite genres, there are only a few authors whose work I trust to remain true to God’s Word without adding to or taking away from it. One of these authors is Tessa Afshar.
Afshar’s latest work, “Daughter of Rome,” explores the lives of Aquila and Priscilla, the enigmatic New Testament couple whom the apostle Paul described as “my fellow workers in Christ Jesus” (Romans 16:3). The Bible mentions them six times, and their faith and influence are apparent, but their backstory and the details of their lives are not given. Implementing historical research and drawing from established facts about this period in time, Afshar ignites renewed interest in this husband and wife gospel team by creating a narrative that imagines what their individual lives may have been like before transitioning into their romance and eventual ministry. The beauty of this lies in demonstrating that they are real people with real flaws; as is evidenced over and over again in the Bible, God chooses to work through people who are broken and imperfect.
Priscilla and Aquila’s story diverges somewhat from Afshar’s usual style, effecting a deeper and more somber tone that makes the narrative all the more poignant. Gritty, realistic circumstances impress upon readers the harshness of life in ancient Rome. There is abortion, murder, persecution, and betrayal, but all are handled with grace and sensitivity. And as Rufus tells Priscilla, “It is hard to put to words. Trouble itself can be transformed, you see, in the hands of God. Instead of a place of destruction, pain and heartache can lead to hope.” As Priscilla grows in her faith, Aquila learns spiritual maturity. Far too often we, like Aquila, judge others for being what we consider to be inferior; the marriage of Roman Priscilla and Jewish Aquila truly speaks to the unity and unconditional love that Christ brings. As we struggle with our own burdens, we forget that those around us carry encumbrances of their own. Priscilla later testifies: “I can tell you that my own dreams have been crushed more than once. But when I condemned myself, God extended forgiveness to me. When I felt broken, he gave me strength. When I thought the future held nothing but pain, he gave me joy. Those are the actions of love.”
“Daughter of Rome” does not shy away from the vicissitudes of life, particularly Christian life, and as such it offers encouragement and inspiration. It is a story of second chances, a poignant and at times heartrending narrative, made all the more so because every reader can identify with it in some way. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24). As Aquila wisely counsels, “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.” The apostle Paul demonstrates this throughout Scripture, and his role in this novel was one of my favorites because of his witty humor. He has a remarkable attitude toward suffering, but there is also evidence of his humanity, again emphasizing that God can use anyone for His glory. The fervor of the early church is something that, in many ways, I think we need to return to; our faith is dynamic, not static, and we should never lose our joy and awe at the priceless gift of salvation offered to each of us. With Christ as our cornerstone, we can become His instruments of love and peace. Priscilla “had been born a daughter of Rome. But she had become a daughter of the Most High God.” Whose child are you?
I received a complimentary copy of this book to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, part 255 Guidelines, concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in advertising.
Reading Daughter Of Rome felt like home.
The characters were wonderful. I squealed when Apostle Paul was introduced. I got to read about this work in Corinth apart form the accounts in the Bible and it was wonderful.
The manner in which the author presented the couple Priscilla and Aquilla was marvelous. They were normal people like me plagued with the same faults and struggles like everyone. But their faith and trust in God was the most admirable trait of theirs.
I fell in love with Priscilla. Her heart was so kind. Her most admirable virtue apart from her good heart was despite all the pain and trials she went through it did not taint her heart with bitterness, did not make her mean or hard but rather her travails made her kind, sweet and good to others. That’s a trait I always want to have.
Aquilla was one wonderful hero. He had one or two things to learn form his wife. I loved the fact that he was a wonderful leader. I admired the fact that when corrected he took it in stride and did better.
Paul!!! The beatings he went through for the Gospel. His heart for the church was unrivaled. His meeting the couple was beautifully written about in this book. Their work together was so wonderful.
Priscilla and Aquilla are what I will call a power couple. Together they did mighty things for the church and the kingdom of God. Their heart for hospitality was magnificent.
One of the great things I take away from this book is this: no trial or travail is wasted with God. In His hands He has the ability to change everything for good if only we are submissive to Him and His will. Both Jew and Gentile, slave or free, equal in His sight, can be used for His glory.
I received a copy of the book and this is my honest opinion.
I love the themes of forgiveness and grace woven through Tessa’s latest Biblical fiction! We are never far from God’s compassion, no matter what we have done. I’ve often wondered about the history of Aquila and Priscilla and was immersed in the very believable and relatable characters and plot. I was present in Rome as their budding romance began, and carried away to their new home in Corinth where they struggled to adjust, and later dedicated themselves to building the church with the Apostle Paul. Once again, Scripture comes alive under the artful pen of Tessa Afshar!
Every book is an unique journey. Some books rush form destination to destination, giving us action and drama. Others meander slowly, exploring the depths of the human spirit. Then there are a precious few that do all of these, and they shine like diamonds. “Daughter of Rome” by Tessa Afshar is on of those books.
“Daughter of Rome” brings to life the story of Priscilla, wife of Aquila and co-laborer of Paul. We see Priscilla deal with a difficult past and poor choices. We experience what draws her to Christ and her love story with Aquila. We rejoice as she breaks free of her chains amidst great trials.
The novels deals with the topics of rejection, abortion, miscarriage, infertility, and adoption. Great sensitivity is used, but this does not sugar coat the issues. The characters wrestle with God and their circumstances while holding on to faith.
My favorite quotation is a prayer by Priscilla. “I am here because you will use this pain to forge me and shape me and complete me. I am here because you have begun a good work in me, and you are determined to complete it. This is not about the trouble I have known through the years, but about the God who is with me in the trouble. Yeshua, I am yours. Do with me what you will.” Such beautiful, gut-wrenching honesty is a staple of this marvelous book.
I received a NetGalley digital copy of the book to facilitate this review. The views and opinions expressed here are 100% honest and my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, part 255 Guidelines, concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonals in advertising.
After reading a digital ARC of Daughter of Rome, I’m going to say this is my favorite
Tessa Afshar novel to date and I’ve read them ALL. The message of hope and forgiveness in this book will be like a balm to the soul for many women.