It's no surprise to me that I enjoyed reading this story, as Afshar is a master story teller. I know that any time I pick up on one of her books, I am going to feel as if I were back in biblical times, seeing it all play out in front of me. Not only that, but the stories are so engaging that you become so engrossed in the storyline that everything else you have on your to-do list can simply wait. And that is exactly what happened with Jewel of the Nile.

Chariline's character was everything I wanted her to be and more. Her back story and quest to find who her father was, was so intriguing to me. I mean, you don't really think that to be a biblical fiction plot line, but it totally worked! She had a lot of growth throughout the story as well, which can be hard I think in this genre. But Afshar does an amazing job and bringing it slowly, not forced. It just seemed...natural.

Then there's Theo. Oh Theo. Fans of Afshar, including myself, have been waiting for his story. Wait no more my friends because it is here! Afshar is no stranger to writing great heros, but Theo just might be my fav. He has so many qualities I want in a hero, which you get pieced of if you've read other books by her. It almost adds to the hype of him being in this book, which made it even better to read.

I highly recommend the latest from Tessa Afshar. Even if you've not read one of her previous novels, I think this would be a great one to start with. It'll challenge your faith while providing a beautiful storyline. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

It’s AD31, and a newly married couple is attempting to escape their pursuers across the River Nile. It’s a desperate effort, and there’s no help available. He is Cushite, she is Roman. This cannot end well, and it’s no spoiler to state that it does not. The husband and wife are soon parted. Chapter one commences 25 years later. A roman official is coming to the end of his term in Cush. His mixed-race daughter knows this means time is running out to discover the identity of her father. Her aunt will not help her, and a trusted friend advises her to leave well enough alone. But she is a Christian woman, and her friends are the daughters of Philip the Evangelist. They pray with her and, believing she has been given an answer, she sneaks aboard a vessel bound for Rome.

Philip is not the only Biblical character in Tessa Afshar’s newest release. From 14 verses in Acts 8, she has expertly woven a story around Philip’s interaction with the eunuch of an African queen. Using various historical sources, Afshar fleshes out the character of the official, portraying him as a Cushite (from the area now known as northern Sudan) rather than an Ethiopian due to modern day translation of the word “Ethiopian” to mean black-skinned people and/or African in Greek. This is a tale that takes readers from Cush to Caesarea, to Rome, and back to Cush. And, while readers understand that there must be a happy ending, we witness our lead characters being pursued by a warrior whose thoughts we experience but never really know.

This is a Christian novel with elements of romance and adventure mixed in. First time readers of Tessa Afshar can dive in and be emersed in the narrative without any necessary foreknowledge. Long time readers, however, will immediately recognize Theo even if they don’t remember his story. After featuring in Thief of Corinth and making an appearance in Daughter of Rome, it’s now his turn to play the male lead. Other characters from these two books also make appearances, including a certain Cushite ship’s captain about whom I had forgotten until I sped read these two books as a refresher.

As for a message, the one that spoke to me most was about unworthiness. Both Chariline and Theo wrestle with a lack of self-worth, believing the scars within them meant they were less than whole. Both were bound captive by beliefs imposed on them by others. Considering my personal circumstances, which I won’t go into here, this is something with which I easily connected. Thank you, Tessa, for such perfect timing. And perhaps, thank you God also.

Disclaimer: Although I received an electronic advance copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions above are my own.

Jewel of the Nile is Theo’s story. Readers were introduced to him in the books The Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome. It has been a while since I read those books so my mind had to blow the dust off his childhood. While I have read these books, the reader would not need to have read these books in order to understand Theo. Afshar does an excellent job of providing enough back story for Theo to enjoy this part of his story.

Chariline is an orphan brought up by her Roman aunt in the beautiful seaside town of Cesarea. Every summer she visits her grandparents in the capital of Cush. Never feeling the love of her parents, Chariline wants to fill this void. She pushes at her “truth” and finds there are secrets to uncover. Desperate to find her father, she stows away on Theo’s vessel.

Along the journey, there are secrets to uncover for Chariline and for Theo. As usual Afshar teaches the reader about secrets we may hold as well.

I loved reading about Theo and Chariline. I loved learning a bit more about the Ethiopian Eunuch. Now this character has a possible story and he jumps off the page in my Bible. I love how Afshar does this for me. It makes me excited to meet this person in heaven. I look forward to having coffee someday with this person and asking about his real story.

One lesson I could identify with was “Sometimes, in the frustration of what we don’t have, we forget to rejoice in what we do.” I have been waiting a long time for a couple of prayers to be answered. I am still waiting for the answers but have forgotten to see that God has continued to provide for me. My tunnel vision has grown focused on my goal and I am learning that I need to widen my view to see the myriad of blessings God does provide.

The other part that touched me was the poem that Theo wrote Angel Scars. This battle that an angel takes on and bears the scars is how we are as Christians. We bare scars but how many of us seek out the help of Jesus to heal our wounds and rejoice in that healing. God is our strong tower and filled with love and grace.

This is another winner from Tessa Afshar. It will be read and enjoyed again. I look forward to her next story and adventure. It is always well with my time.

My thanks to Moody Publishers and Netgalley for the free ebook in exchange for my review of this book.

A touching, raw and emotional journey that can wrench the heart and yet soothes the soul.
Chariline is a bi-racial orphan being raised by an unyielding aunt. Little has been shared about her parents lives. Her mother dying in childbirth, there is a longing to know who her father was. Overhearing a conversation between her aunt and grandfather, she learns that her father is alive. In that moment and guided by her strong will and determination her quest begins. Taking place in biblical times, she encounters fascinating characters, Philip and his daughters and the merchant Theo. This road to learn her fathers identity is also the one traveled to learn of her own.
This is a tale of faith, spirit and love. Filled with adventure and beautiful prose, this is a wonderful work of historical fiction and is a worthwhile read

My thanks to NetGalley, Tyndall House Publishers and Tessa Afshar for an ARC in exchange for an honest book review.

Tessa Afshar is an author whom I'd pick up anything she writes because I know I'm in for deep study and a wonderful story. This did not disappoint either.
I loved every bit of this story. Chariline's journey to discovering who she was and her purpose and family.
I loved her from the start, loved her spirit and understood her pain. I wanted her to find joy and peace.
Theo (oh my). I loved his heart, his protectiveness. Despite all he's been through. He's faith and his spirit and how he was helping Chariline through her journey.
The spiritual aspects of the story were spot on too. Not believing the lies you're told about yourself. Surrendering to God and believing what he says about you.
This has earned its place in my favourites shelf and has definitely given me much to think about

Biblical fiction that will draw readers into the ancient Roman kingdom and the ancient of Cush. Chariline always wanted to know about her father but was told that he was dead and never to mention him. She never was quite accepted since she was half Cushite and half Roman. This story is focused on Chariline's quest to find her father when she learns that he is in fact alive. Her journey to the truth proves to be quite the adventure. Loved it! Appreciate the author's note. Highly recommended!!

I loved this lavish story from veteran historical author Tessa Afshar. A young Cushite girl, lied to by her grandparents and desperate to learn who her father was, embarks on a sea adventure. Chariline makes surprising choices that put her in danger, but Theo, a handsome young shipping owner, a cheeky orphan with many uncles and aunts, and such Biblical characters as Philip and his prophetess daughters, step in to keep her safe. I enjoyed going along on her adventure. Highly recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction set in ancient times.

#Jewel of the Nile# by Tessa Afshar is a Biblical fiction novel. .Tessa is the Publisher's weekly best selling author of Biblical and inspirational fiction. She won the Inspy award for Land of Silence. The Bible study New Beginnings on the book of Ruth won the EPCA book of the year award. She has her Master's of Divinity from Yale. The novel takes place at Cush , the ancient city and the Roman empire. . The characters are well described. The city of Cush is explained well. Chariline is the main character. The themes of the book are trust vs mistrust, identity, hope, secrets, coming of age, coping in difficult situations. The reader will feel like they have stepped in the land of Cush and Ancient Rome. The book is well researched and applied to the novel. The cover of the book is so beautiful and shows the sadness of Chariline. Thank you to netgalley, the author, the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. This book is a wonderful addition to Christian literature.

“Sometimes, in the frustration of what we don’t have, we forget to rejoice in what we do.”

Tessa Afshar has penned a beautiful love story set in Biblical times highlighting a little-known Bible character from scripture.

Afshar’s vivid imagery and rich details paired with our February 2020 trip to Egypt, allowed me to slip into the plot and watch history unfold from the sidelines. We had our own Nile River adventure where we spent three weeks in Egypt and, like the protagonist, spent time on Elephantine Island, in the Nile, near Sudan.

The story centers around a fictional character, Chariline Gemina’s (think ‘Caroline’) quest to find her father she believed to be dead. Chariline’s father defied the queen of Cush and married the daughter of a Roman official. When his wife died in childbirth, he sent the child to be raised by her aunt and spend summers with her maternal grandparents. Her father, nor his name, were allowed to be mentioned in the home. In fact, his daughter didn’t even know his name. Feeling an outsider, due to her skin colour, her whole life, Chariline is desperate to find her father. This quest drives her to become a stowaway on a merchant ship heading to Caesarea where she meets Theodotus of Corinth (fictional), the apostle Paul, and Christians, Aquilla and Priscilla and learns of her history.

Afshar’s ability to incorporate Bible history into engaging fiction is astounding. I think any reader could connect with the theme of forgivness and unworthiness regardless of religious beliefs. I was inspired as Chariline learns to forgive and trust and then in turn teaches Theo about love and grace. Afshar has built her tale around 14 verses in Acts 8 and added a mystery, a murder plot, a romance, and an adventure then interspersed it with a family saga.

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

“Hiding the truth gains nothing but an invitation for the powers of darkness to multiply.”

After finishing, I immediately went and ordered the first two books in the trilogy. Her writing is THAT enjoyable.

I was gifted this copy by Tessa Afshar, Tyndale House Publishers, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

If you enjoy reading Biblical fiction that is rich in detail and characters you will enjoy Tessa Afshar’s Jewel of the Nile.
Chariline, our heroine is Cushite. Well mixed race. Half Roman. We often think of Biblical history as only taking place in the Mediterranean, Middle East region. But their world was a bit larger. It is refreshing to see someone who doesn’t fit the usual character. Knowing her entire life that her father was Cushite, Chariline has been nearly ostracized by her extended Roman family, forbidden to talk or ask questions about her parents, being told that they are both dead.
In finding out that her father may still be alive sets her on a journey of discovery. Both for her father and ultimately within herself. Intrigue abounds as those secrets were suppose to remain buried.
I thought Chariline was refreshing. Mid 20’s independent, gifted with her mother’s talent. Self taught. The main hero in the story is Theo. Without too many spoilers I can think of more than one hero. I have discovered that this isn’t the first novel of Tessa Afshar that he as appeared in. But this is very much a stand alone novel, though characters from other novels make appearances. It only wets my appetite for going back and reading the previous books.
Theo is a merchant of soap. And helps Chariline find the answers she seeks.
I love Tessa’s attention to research and detail. I also love how her characters have flaws just like the rest of us. She shows the human struggle to always have Faith when life gets hard.

There are books that are read and shelved. You read them and move on, having enjoyed the foray into the lives of the characters and soon to forget them as new characters in a new novel move to the forefront. Other books are enjoyable fiction that get into your soul in a very non-fiction way. The characters and their events are fiction, but the truths are fact and prompt the reader to delve more deeply into that truth and what it means personally. Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar is an excellent example of this.

Chariline has grown up an orphan in the care of her emotionally distant aunt and barely tolerated by her grandparents. When whispers reveal that her father may actually be alive, Chariline feels compelled to search to the ends of the earth to find him. In the search for her father, she must excise the scars of her heart and lay them before the One who will never abandon her. However, Chariline is not alone in feeling guilty, unworthy, unlovable, and confused about reconciling those old hurts with the Lord's truth.

In Jewel of the Nile, we are treated to the continued storyline of dear Theo, who I have loved since his appearance in Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome. Theo has much to teach Chariline and much to learn from her, as well. I love the way Afshar weaves their stories around beloved New Testament characters and historical figures, using rich historical detail to immerse the reader in the setting. Jewel of the Nile is a treasure among tomes, and should be savored for its rich delights.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

When I first saw this title, I thought it was from a much earlier time period and a different country. Which wouldn't have mattered, I really enjoy Tessa Afshar's writing and would have read it regardless. Intrigued by the synopsis, I was eager to learn more.

I was transported to another time and place from the very start. And fascinated by the plight of Gemina and her husband, who were introduced in the prologue. I quickly became fully invested in the characters and knew that I had to follow their story to its conclusion!

I struggled a little with reading the name Chariline at first. Then I realized that her name was Greek and therefore assumed the "ch" would be pronounced like "k" as in charis - therefore read it as "Caroline". It made the rest of the reading much easier!

Chariline had such a sad background! My heart went out to the orphan who was despised by her grandfather due to her mixed heritage and the rebellion she represented to him and merely tolerated by the aunt who raised her. When she discovered that her father was still living, I didn't blame her at all for wanting to discover his identity and was impressed by the bold way she continued to search for him.

As much as I admired Chariline, I adored Theo! He was so fascinating. When he discovered her as a stowaway on his ship, he was so kind to her and possessed the servant heart Jesus desires from His followers!

One of my favorite less-known New Testament characters played a minor, though significant, role and I loved reading the author's depiction of him! The conjecture the author made about his backstory was interesting and unexpected. I was fascinated to learn more about the plight of the God-fearers desiring to worship and yet were forbidden access to the temple. The circumstances that led him to feel insignificant were very moving.

A level of suspense and mystery filled the pages as Chariline's search took place and Theo had to protect her from an unexpected threat. And as both learned to find their value in Christ alone.

I thoroughly enjoyed this well-researched story. And as it contained characters from other books by Tessa Afshar also set during this time period, including Theo, it made me want to go back and re-read The Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome! It is not necessary to read them all together but it certainly would enhance the reading experience to do so.

What an absolute delight.

Afshar has woven a masterpiece of exotic historical fiction, with just enough spark and factual detail that you begin to doubt if Chariline is actually fictional at all…

The narrative is rich, the imagery is striking, and Afshar has taken full advantage of the backdrop the ancient world has to offer. I inhaled this book in one sitting, and as I write this on a rainy, dull day, if I close my eyes I can be convinced I am still wandering the hot, dusty streets of Ancient Rome and Cush. Though I am not an expect in this specific area, I am a Classicist, and so I particularly appreciated the careful attention to detail that was paid to the characters’ clothing, physical descriptions etc. - it is the little things that can make a historical novel so absorbing.

I haven’t read any of Afshar’s other works, but now I definitely want to, which I hope is endorsement enough! Overall a thrilling, evocative and well-researched work - thank you to Tyndale House and NetGalley for the privilege!

“She never felt so at home as when she was near the Nile.”

Adventure. Romance. Mystery. If you’re looking for tales of adventure on the high seas and in exotic lands; in a place that will have you traveling back in time where camels are the mode of transportation as well as vessels on the Nile river, then you’ll want to read this book. Afshar is a master at creating an historical adventure and romance with inspiring themes that will capture your heart and imagination.

When a truth is revealed that is potentially life-changing, Chariline braves her fears to go on a dangerous journey. As she seeks the Lord and his guidance, she finds unlikely friends that help her on the way. I found “Jewel of the Nile” to weave an historical quest with a deep well of spiritual inspiration.

“For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. MARK 4:22, NLT”

The scenery was awe inspiring and made me want to jump on a plane to visit. I would love to have my own little adventure on the Nile River. My heart was drawn to her desire for familial ties, too. I adored Theo, their romance and the journey they took together. Beautifully written and inspiring, it was fun seeing nods at biblical characters that really made the story come to life during the early time period for Rome, Egypt, and the Nile. If you love imagining stories set during biblical times, I think you’ll love Tessa Afshar’s writing!

“He took one last aching look outside the crumbling window; the Nile was molten gold in the light of the rising sun, a sparkling coil winding its way into the horizon.”

Who wants to go with me to visit the places Theo and Chariline went in this book?

I was given an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own and are given honestly.

Denied the affection of her family and any knowledge of her parents, half-Cushite and half-Roman Chariline is a resilient and determined heroine in Tessa Afshar's Jewel of the Nile. As her Roman grandparents prepare to leave Cush, she learns more of her mother and a shared passion for architecture, and that her father is alive.

With the help of friends, Chariline begins to search for the identity of her father, and when a discovery points to clues held within her mother's past, she stows away on the ship of a man who shares an acquaintance with Paul of Tarsus. When she is discovered, Theo takes her into his care and though they begin to grow closer, it soon becomes apparent that Chariline is in greater danger than either of them know.

Filled with action and drama, the prologue is not to be missed, and though I don't often read them, Afshar's Note from the Author at the end of the book is quite interesting. It discusses some choices that were made and the appearance of characters from the book of Acts throughout the story. I found myself wanting to reread Acts and moving two of the authors books, The Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome, higher up on my reading list in order to see the earlier versions of these biblical characters brought to life and to experience Theo's origins.

Exciting and touching in turn, this is a story that will entertain and delight both dedicated and new biblical fiction readers. And for fans of Christian romance, Theo and Chariline will be a couple to remember, from their shared devotion to a new faith that precedes their meeting to a first kiss scene that is sure to top some lists.

With transportive descriptions and a riveting narrative, Tessa Afshar's Jewel of the Nile is a joy to read - such a celebration of faith in the time of the early church, weaving multiple testimonies, prayers, and contemplations through a dynamic story. Highly recommended.


This review refers to a temporary digital galley I voluntarily read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not require and these are only my own, honest opinions.

"Jewel of the Nile" is a Christian romance mainly set in Cush, Rome, and on a ship in 56 AD. This continues the story of one of the characters in "Thief of Corinth," but you don't have the read that book to understand this one. Through the events of the story, Chariline grew as a person and learned from her mistakes, learning to consult God's will in her decision-making rather than simply justifying what she wanted to do. Both she and Theo share similarities in their pasts as well as a feeling of responsibility for their mothers' deaths shortly after their birth and of abandonment by their parents. While trying to help each other see their value and the misplaced guilt, they find emotional healing. They supported and built each other up.

The characters acted realistically, were likable, and grew as people. Historical and cultural details were woven into the story. Though a minor note: a ship in full sail would leave behind in seconds anything that fell overboard. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I recommend this enjoyable novel.

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.

Jewel of the Nile
by Tessa Afshar
Published June 1, 2021

I have enjoyed reading Tessa Afshar since the Harvest of Rubies Series came out. Tessa writes beautiful Biblical fiction. So if you enjoy this type of writing give this book a try. I did not connect with the characters as much in this book as others so I will rate it a 4. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.

4 star

I’m a big fan of Tessa Afshar’s stories. She writes with such grace, delivering a wonderfully strong visual and ambiance of Bible times.

Jewel Of the Nile is no different. I connected with Chariline, and felt the time, place, and emotions she experienced. She ran me through so many emotions, and it was easy to sympathize with her on her pursuit of finding out who her father was and desire for connection.

It is effortless to connect with Theo as well. He’s a magnificent personality, and perhaps one of my favorites of Afshar’s male characters. I love the interaction he shares with Chariline and empathize with his feelings of inadequacy. Theo and Chariline wear off on each other, so-to-speak, imparting wisdom, wit, and healing upon the other.

Ms. Afshar has a strong storytelling gift. I love how she meshes fiction with authentic Bible characters and culture, and how she swiftly penetrates the soul with divine spiritual truths. After meeting Theo in Thief of Corinth, I’m delighted he got his own story.


Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.

I have been reading and enjoying Tessa Afshar's books since Harvest of Rubies was published in 2012.
I wish I could say that I loved this novel but I can't. I found it hard to follow and I couldn't connect to the main characters.
Tessa Afshar writes amazing biblical fiction so if you enjoy biblical fiction give it a shot.