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.

Daughter of Rome is available on Kindle, audio, hardcover and paperback.

Any biblical fiction book that truly makes me want to study the Bible more is five stars for me. A lot of times Christian authors can get so caught up in a story that they deviate from the purpose of Biblical fiction which is making sure that God is center stage and encouraging readers to study the Bible further. This is never an issue with Tessa Afshar. This is the 6th book I've read from her, and every book I've read has always made me want to study the Bible more deeply or reflect on my faith more seriously.

I did not know a lot about Priscilla and Aquila before reading Daughter of Rome. I only new one story which (small spoiler ahead) was the story of Apollos and how they guided him to become more knowledgeable about Christ...AND that story isn't even in this book! It ends before the timeline gets there. It was amazing to me how Tessa Afshar took what I would consider "minor" mentions of Priscilla and Aquila in the Bible and craft a full story about them.

This is a Biblical Romance but Tessa Afshar still makes sure that the characters relationship with Christ is always the main concern. This book was a quick read for me and we cover a lot of ground from start to finish. I really enjoyed the author notes at the end where Tessa Afshar explains the research that she did to write this book and I DIDN'T KNOW Priscilla and Aquila were mentioned in 4 different books in the Bible. I read each section right after I finished this novel and am doing my own historical research on the couple now.

The character of Priscilla makes me reflect on the role of women in the church and the way that both Aquila and Priscilla were portrayed in this book really made me reflect on what true Christian companionship looks like. Really beautiful story! If you've read Thief of Corinth, you'll see a few familiar faces pop up and some story lines intersect which is fun (but it's not necessary to have read any of Tessa Afshar's past novels to enjoy and understand this book!) This novel also ends where there is an opportunity to continue the story with Priscilla and Aquila. Not sure if Tessa Afshar has something else in mind for these characters!

I received a free copy of Daughter of Rome through Just Read Tours and was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

An absolutely excellent novel! I had never thought about Priscilla and Aquila outside of their few mentions in the Bible. This was my first novel by this author and she blew me away with her fictional tale of their lives. Tessa Afshar brought them to life in a way that gave me more perspective on the humanity of each of the people of the Bible.

The author actually covers some hard hitting topics in this novel, and does it with such care: choices we make, forgiveness, unforgiveness, following Christ when it's not easy, and many others. I was so enthralled with the story that it didn't dawn on me until I was nearly finished how much this book covered.

An aspect that I loved about this story was that I could go to my Bible and see where each of the characters fit in scripture. I absolutely appreciate the research the author did to make sure this story was as accurate as possible. This book I have no doubt will be one of my favorites of 2020!

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.

Once a book has Tessa Afshar's name attached to it, I snatch it up quickly not caring what it's about because I know I'll come out from reading it challenged, wanting to do more and wondering how can I apply these lessons to my walk of faith.
Daughter of Rome did all these and more and yes I must confess I definitely did shed a year or two. The messages of grace of redemption and forgiveness throughout the book had me spellbound.
Priscilla challenged me as a person and as a Christian. Her earnest sincere love for God and her desire to serve him even when she felt unworthy or her generosity to everyone that came her way even those who treated her as less than human her forgiving spirit. She wasn't perfect but she was real.
Aquila too was a wonderful character. He had his flaws and a lot of issues and prejudice he had to learn to get rid of. I love that he was willing to take corrections and think over his actions especially when they were unintentionally hurtful.
The romance between Priscilla and Aquila was just beautiful. They fit together so beautifully and I love how they worked well together.
I also enjoyed Paul's part in the story. It was fun to read more about the early church and the challenges that came with serving God then but how they stood firm and bolded told others about Christ.
This book will definitely go on my shelves as one of my favourite reads for the year because the lessons therein are going to be with me for a long time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher all opinions expressed are mine alone

Before Tessa Afshar's Thief of Corinth, I was never interested in Biblical fiction. I didn't like the overdramatic narrative in books centered around women in Old Testament times. (I call it overdramatic; you may not. Peace, brothers and sisters.) In fact, I think I'm much more likely to pick up a book written in the New Testament era JUST because of that narrative issue I have. But I digress...

Daughter of Rome centers around Priscilla and Aquila, friends of Paul only briefly mentioned in the Scriptures. Of course I read this book because of them. And because I quite enjoyed the first book in this series. Needless to say, I really love seeing Afshar bring Paul's character to life. He's exactly how I've always imagined him!

Priscilla and Aquila were both fascinating characters that were wonderfully fleshed out. I especially liked the theme of compassion in the story; I mean, it would be difficult to avoid that writing about early years of ministry, but you know what I mean. I just appreciate it overall.

Marcus was SUCH A PURE LITTLE cinnamon roll *cries internally* I loved him so much.

The other characters, too, yes, awesomely done. Also, can I just say... I LOVED the banter throughout the whole book. Between Aquila and his uncle, Priscilla and Marcus, Paul and everyone... THE BANTER WAS THE BEST.

*cough* The romance got a little *much* but it was still... clean? I guess. Definitely nothing compared to what you see in so much of YA these days, so I'm not even gonna complain. (... That's a lie. But it's a small complaint compared to YA.)

Overall, this book was really good. Loved the themes, the story, the characters, the bAnTeR.... A solid four stars and I can't wait to see more of this series!

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required; all views and opinions expressed are my own.*

I have read 40% of this book and I’m sorry to say it just hasn’t grabbed me yet. The main characters, Priscilla and Aquila, end up together because they are mentioned in the Bible, but I find myself not that interested in their story. I have previously read Land of Silence by this author and thought it was wonderful.

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 all 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. Brother turned against brother, children were disowned by parents, spouses found themselves at odds.

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. I honestly can't talk this piece up enough.

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.

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.

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!

A beautifully written story about Priscilla and Aquila. The author richly describes the Roman culture in a way that readers will feel apart of Rome. The Bible comes alive through the words of this author. Biblical people along with some fictional characters show God's love and mercy in throughout this well researched historical novel. Highly recommended!!

Tessa Afshar has done it again. In the adventurous style of Harvest of Rubies or Harvest of Gold, Daughter of Rome is fast paced and thought provoking from the beginning.
It deals with some difficult subjects of abortion, class, rejection, pain, and shows God's grace. A depiction of the early church in Rome and later Corinth with Paul, the story follows years of the lives of Priscilla and Aquila from the book of Acts.
I appreciated all the plot twists, deviations, and though their lives were in danger many times they never gave up on God.
Afshar always weaves theology and hard questions smoothly into her writing without being preachy. (I often skip over sections with preaching, but I don't in her books). I also appreciate how every loose end is tied up even when you're not sure it can be.
I will definitely recommend this book to anyone searching for a good Biblical fiction book.

I read this book through netgalley in exhange for my honest review.

Daughter of Rome is Biblical fiction with Priscilla and Aquila as main characters. From the basic facts recorded in the Book of Acts and Romans, Tessa Afshar draws out a tale that spans the couple’s exodus from Rome to Corinth and their subsequent work as evangelists. Priscilla is a Bible personality held in high regard due to her intellect, compassion, and mercy. This theme is a constant thread throughout the novel. Together, Priscilla and Aquila, are a formidable duo proclaiming the gospel to searching souls. The apostle Paul also figures prominently in this novel. Hats off to Afshar who captures Paul’s fervor with success. I’m sure it’s a daunting task to pen dialogue for this zealous missionary. Paul’s passion for spreading the gospel through teaching and advising while surviving persecution is true to the historical record.

Some of the most tender and fun moments occur when Priscilla and Aquila open their hearts and home to a runaway boy. The young runaway, Marcus, eventually wins a lasting place in their family group. A little revelry enters the story through the antics of Ferox, the family dog.

As you make your way through the book, details about Ancient Rome will pique your interest. Whether it’s political life or social customs, you’ll find yourself looking up additional references. Only in two or three instances did I feel the story’s pace was interrupted by some word choices that I will admit sent me to the dictionary. Dint and calumnious being two examples.

Overall, Afshar shares a story that shines a light on the importance of mercy and forgiveness. Two qualities as important to the ancient world as they are to communities today. In addition, readers will be impressed by the team of early Christians who persevered despite harsh treatment and threats on their life.

I jumped at the chance to read an advanced reader’s copy of Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar. I thought her previous book Bread of Angels was stellar. Naturally I had high expectations for this upcoming release due out February 4, 2020. I received this ARC from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. #DaughterofRome #NetGalley

I'm going with a 4.75 star rating for this book. For some reason my mind could not fully connect as I feel the writing was a bit different from the other books. The characters were awesome and the story line was great! This definitely a relatable story for me.

Priscilla is a sweet girl who is both Roman and born of a slave mother. She is treated like a disease by her brother. She was raised with hate, but turned out to be a pure flower. Priscilla dealt with hardships outside of her brother with a guy she "dated" which gutted me. She is such a gem and even though she was a Gentile, her heart for God was evident in every way. She was kind to all -- enemies included. She helped the poor, went without food to help others, nursed many people and showed love every way that she can. I loved and adored her character.

Aquila reminded me so much of Salmone from Pearl in the Sand in the first few chapters with how he acted towards Priscilla being a Gentile. He was very prideful, but he was also a wrecked man dealing with his own issues. I enjoyed him so much because he always acknowledged his faults and shortcomings then tried to work through them. He was a hardworking man seeking love and he found it.

The romance was so cute!!! They definitely had an instant attraction to one another, but they didn't rush into anything. They chatted, they had cute banters and always were around one another. Their romance brewed excellently and they ended up being one heck of a power couple.

Volero was a trash brother in every sense. Even in his meanness toward Priscilla, I felt he always had a deep love for her. Volero was just a bitter man that didn't know how to pull himself out of his valley.

Marcus was amazing!! I loved him from the first introduction to the end. A young boy on the run from his uncle. He was smart, caring, funny, loving and had a heart of gold. I loved that he was taken in, cared and loved for. He got his happily ever after which I adored.

Antonia was so annoying from prologue to end, but I began to enjoy it towards the middle. She was the evil villain in the story, that somewhat redeemed herself. She had to learn a lot over the course of her life. She was a great addition to the story in various ways.

Paul was okay in this story. Not much of him in this book, but I enjoyed him more in this book then I did in Thief of Corinth. He came as a friend and coworker in this story.

Overall, this was such a great story from Tessa and I highly recommend it to all!

From spiritual and emotional rags to riches, The Daughter of Rome, Priscilla, learns to open her heart to Christ and Aquila and becomes a powerful force in the new church during the ministry of the apostle, Paul. Tessa Afshar does meticulous research into a fascinating period of history, sweeping the reader back into Rome when the church was forming by immersing them into a love story between a gentile and a Jew. Priscilla is high born Roman but has a servant’s heart which longs for Christ’s love and forgiveness. I fell in love with the characters and I also fell in love with the Father all over again.

Daughter of Rome is an eloquently-written, multifaceted, fictional tale that shows at its core the unconditional nature of God's love towards all people, irrespective of personal history, heritage, nationality, gender, age or station.

Tessa Afshar's gift for bringing the bible to life is surreal! Her brilliant book is riddled with dynamic relationships that effortlessly deliver poingnant lessons on friendship, family and fellowship; and, paint a lucid picture of true forgiveness.

Furthermore, this delightful story is so meticulously scripted, I feel as though I went to ancient Rome and met each character personally. The chemistry between the lead characters was electric. As for Priscilla, her struggles with shame, guilt and acceptance of God's forgiveness were very real. Yet the generosity of her person outweighed them all. She just might be my new best friend!

Bravo, Tessa Afshar. Bravo!
May your ink never run dry.

Every book is a 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 one 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 novel 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 #DaughteofRome, I'm going to say this is my favorite @TessaAfshar 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.

Having read and enjoyed all of TESSA AFSHAR's novels, I was looking forward to receiving a copy of DAUGHTER OF ROME, and I am definitely not disappointed! In her special way, the author draws us into New Testament times with the story of Priscilla and Aquila, adding wonderful characters that round out the Bible story, without in any way detracting from the truth. She uses Scriptures throughout which form an integral part of the book. There is a richness in her writing that really makes the Bible come alive.
Priscilla comes from a noble Roman family, but when her father dies she is treated badly by her brother. She longs to belong to a family and finds acceptance and love amongst the followers of Yeshua. She is compassionate and kind, forgiving others whilst she finds it hard to forgive herself!
Aquila is a young Jewish follower of Yeshua, who is initially seen as being quite judgmental and legalistic. Their love story is beautifully told.
The two of them, together with additional "family" members, serve the Lord faithfully in Rome and then in Corinth, where they serve with Paul, following him to Ephesus.
I am not going to tell you any more as I do not want to spoil things for you, except to say that there is everything in this novel that makes for a most enjoyable read - romance, intrigue, likable characters and biblical truth. I cannot recommend Daughter of Rome highly enough.
I was given an ARC copy of the book by Tyndale House Publishers from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.