I have been quite impatient as I waited for this book to come out over the last 3 years. I was absolutely dying for Theo to have a happy ending after I fell in love with him in The Thief of Corinth. This book was completely satisfying and didn't even put me through the wringer for him too much which was much appreciated! Most of the drama and suffering for him was vicarious in this book which was just right since he had already been through and overcame so much!

I also loved getting to revisit so many friends from previous books including Aquila, Priscilla, Paul, Silas, Ariadne, and others. I told my husband it was like getting to jump in a time machine and go back to the first century and I feel my faith has increased just from spending time with them.

As for the new characters introduced in this book, they are perfection. I feel like this author shines when her main characters are completely fictional and she weaves their interactions in with real historical people. I always prefer these over the ones where the main characters are the real historical people. I loved getting to visit ancient Cush in this book, and I learned so much about it. This is an absolutely brilliant addition to Tessa Afshar's books. I do recommend that everyone read The Thief of Corinth before this one. While this one could possibly stand alone, you will miss out on some of her best writing and Theo's amazing backstory if you skip over that one. There is a little more of Theo's backstory in Daughter of Rome, but I didn't feel it was nearly as necessary before reading this one as Thief of Corinth.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley but purchased the audiobook from Audible the day it released. I really enjoy Mrs. Afshar's books on audio.

Jewel of the Nile takes readers on an exciting adventure through ancient Rome and Cush.

Jewel of the Nile was my first foray into biblical fiction, and it left me quite amazed. I could tell this was well researched. The descriptions immersed me in the setting and helped me picture an era I’m not as familiar with as say, the nineteenth century. The characters, too, came alive and felt real as I read about them. I especially loved the banter between Theo and Chariline. Not only did it show their personalities but also increased the romantic tension between them. Afshar also did a great job with the suspense element as Chariline tries to discover the identity of her father. Though I was able to guess who it was, Afshar still had me second-guessing myself at times. And the big reveal wasn’t a letdown because Afshar did such a great job with the emotions of that scene.

This novel also includes some profound spiritual truths. I found myself highlighting quote after quote. I think any reader could connect with Chariline’s desire for love and connection. Even with Theo’s belief that he is a reject. Their spiritual journeys spoke to me in a way that made me connect with them even more. Made them feel real. These are characters you’ll remember long after I’ve closed the book.

That being said, I didn’t like the creative license taken with real biblical figures. I understand this is fiction and involves your imagination, but I still wasn’t fond of it. Still, I enjoyed this book, and if I ever read biblical fiction again, I will definitely grab another Tessa Afshar novel.

(I received a complimentary copy of Jewel of the Nile from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

I enjoyed this book! The plot twisted and turned in ways that kept me engaged and wanting more. Afshar is deft in her descriptions of the setting, whether on a boat, in a palace, or the streets of ancient Rome. I could truly picture the scene in my mind's eye and I loved that! The characters were intriguing as well, and I was rooting for Chariline as she journeyed to find the father she had never met. I wish the characters had had more depth, but all in all I enjoyed the book.

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

When Land of Silence came out in 2016, I didn’t think anything could topple it as my favorite Tessa Afshar book… but Jewel of the Nile is giving it some tough competition! One of the things I love most about this author’s novels is how she takes both familiar & obscure people from the Bible and gives them life and backstory and personality. Her stories always wrap around my heart like a Jesus hug and draw me back to the Word over and over again, aided by her careful attention to what we do know from the Biblical narrative and the Scripture verses that open each chapter. Jewel of the Nile does this beautifully, as well as giving us brand new characters to love just as deeply.

Chariline is an engaging, if somewhat headstrong & impulsive, young woman who has never known her parents. Her mother died moments after Chariline’s birth, and no one will speak of her father. Believing him to be long dead, too, Chariline is stunned to overhear that he is, in fact, very much alive. His identity is still a mystery, however, and a series of unexpected events sends Chariline on a journey to track down the only person outside of her reticent family who might know his name. Along the way, she encounters a handful of people who will lovingly strengthen her faith in Jesus and remind her of some things that I need to remember all too often also. Things like recognizing & rejecting the lies we’re so quick to believe about ourselves – “You have to allow Yeshua to tell you the truth. Stop listening to your scars. You are not God’s mistake, Chariline. You are his glory.” – and learning to seek & surrender to God’s plan instead of our own impulses or desires, even when He’s not working ‘fast enough’ for us: “The problem is that when you are flesh-driven, you cannot be Spirit-led.” She just might find some things she wasn’t looking for, too – like romance.

Enter Theo. Just let me get my swooning out of the way right now. Well…. I’m actually not sure I can do that because hello, yummy hero! When he hauls Chariline into his arms and says “Come here,” during their first kiss. Oh be still my heart!! #allthehearteyes Fans of Afshar’s books have been waiting for Theo to get his own story, and it is definitely worth the wait. His protective care for those whom his heart has claimed, his love for Jesus, his own painful backstory, and his unique skills …. and his overall swooniliciousness … has earned him a solid spot in my book boyfriends collection.

Bottom Line: Curling up with a new book by Tessa Afshar is like sitting down to a feast of all your favorite foods with all of your favorite people. The layered characters make Jewel of the Nile a great novel, but the grin-inducing wit, swoonilicious romance, rich writing, and grace-filled truth ensure it is an absolute must-read. Sophocles, Vitruvia, and Arkamani made me laugh out loud more than once, Theo had me swooning all over the place, Chariline had me cheering her on, and appearances by familiar characters from the book of Acts made my heart full. I was captivated from the first word to the last, challenged in my walk with Jesus, and touched by these characters and the story Afshar wove between the lines.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Great storytelling permeates Jewel of the Nile from beginning to end. Relatable characters, a perfectly paced plot, skillful writing, and a mystery that spans continents combined to make this story a five-star read. I read the entire novel in two long sittings because the story captured my attention from the start and my interest continued to grow with each chapter.

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar brought back Theo, a secondary character from two prior novels, and introduced Chariline, a young woman searching for the truth about her past. I loved the romance between these characters as well as the personal growth that they brought forth in each other.

Amid the action, romance, and mystery, Jewel of the Nile packs nuggets of truth into the many spiritual topics that comprise Chariline’s complex emotional and spiritual journey. Speaking truth, breaking generational patterns, being led by the Spirit, seeking divine direction, and surrendering to God’s purposes are some of the topics addressed within Chariline’s journey to finding her father and embracing her future.

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar includes characters from her prior novels, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction with depth, mystery, and romance.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar follows Chariline as she attempts to find her father, who she thought long dead. Along the way, her heart has a few lessons to learn, too.

I couldn’t wait to read this story for two reasons: one, the story takes place outside of the usual scope of Biblical Fiction by beginning in Cush, which is located south of Egypt. And two, because it completes Theo’s story, who we’ve met in the past two books (Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome). The unique history of one of the side characters, who turns out to be a man briefly mentioned in the Bible, was a welcome surprise.

Tessa Afshar’s writing is beautiful and I loved reading this story. Honestly, the only downside was that I figured out the plot before Chariline did… but it didn’t detract from the storytelling. Chariline is a wonderful character with hard past. I loved how she stowed away to continue her journey of discovery. Then there’s Theo. I’ve always liked him as a character and I’m so happy that he takes such a prominent role in this story.

If you’re looking for wonderful novel to sink into and enjoy, try Jewel of the Nile. Though it has a mystery, it is not suspenseful in the traditional sense. It unfolds slowly all the way to the end. And, it’s the type of story I’ll enjoy reading again and again. I hope you will, too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

Tessa Afshar has done it again...given me a book that I couldn't put down! Chariline is being raised by her aunt - a woman who does not mistreat her, but isn't exactly a motherly figure either. Every year, she visited her grandparents. Her grandfather was cold and demanding, but she was the only grandchild and the only part of her mother, who tragically died in childbirth. Due to Chariline's skin color, she knew that her father was Cushite, but she'd always been told that he was dead, too, until she overheard a conversation at her grandparents' home, that shocked her. Chariline's father was still alive. She began a search that would take her miles and miles away from her home to find her father; someone who would finally love her as she was. And during her journey, she may have just found love herself. Afshar's storytelling is hypnotic, and I always look forward with pleasure to her next book!

Tessa Afshar captures the settings of Biblical fiction in a beautiful way. I really enjoyed how this story gave closure to a certain character that we met in Thief of Corinth. I was really intrigued with the location of this book being set in the ancient land of Cush. I always feel like I learn something new about the culture of this time and some interesting history when I read an Afshar book.
For me the heroine was a bit hard to connect with, I felt she was a bit overdramatic or acted quite rashly for her reasoning and circumstances. However that was just my take on it.
I did enjoy seeing Aquila and Priscilla again, and the message of belonging was well delivered.
An enjoyable read.
I recieved this book from the publisher through Netgally and all my opinions in this review are my own and honest.

Once again, Tessa Afshar has written an excellent novel. Her stories always bring to life Biblical times and I feel like I get to know the people from the Bible better, even if it is in a fictional way.

I love Chariline from the start. I could feel how alone she felt, isolated really, and it made my heart go out to her. Not only that, but I wanted to knock heads for the people who had hurt her and continued to do so! It's easy to get riled up for the main characters in Tessa's books.

And it was wonderful to have Theo in his own story this time. My heart broke for him in Thief of Corinth and when I found out he was getting his own story, I was thrilled. Once again, my heart was crushed knowing his backstory, but was so excited to see how he and Chariline would get to know each other and grow getting to know each other. Because of his past, it's understandable that he tries to protect his heart.

It was so fun to see Chariline's bravery and vulnerability come through as she tries to find the answers to her parents. One of my favorite parts of all of Tessa's writing is how we can see the character's spiritual struggle. I definitely saw myself in Chariline. I didn't think I'd be able to relate to someone in Biblical times like her or someone without parents, but it turns out the "truth" she was believing is something any one of us could believe as well.

I have to tell you, Sophocles is one of my favorite characters as well as Arkamani. He's just one of those rugrats you can't help but enjoy!

The faith that's filled throughout this story is so strong. It's present everywhere, as it should be. It was so incredible to see the Holy Spirit moving when Chariline was with Phillips daughters! That was so palpable of God's presence!

I was so surprised at the end to learn who one of the main characters is! I had to go reread their story in the Bible!

*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.

Chariline's mother died giving birth to her and she was raised by her aunt, having been told all her life that her father was also dead. When an overheard conversation reveals that he is in fact still alive, she sets out to find him, whatever the possible cost. Learning that her mother had a dear friend in Rome to whom she presumably confided the man's name, she resolves to go to Rome - by stowing away on the boat of a fellow-Christian she met at the house of Philip in Caesarea. Theo has a rule never to take passengers on his boat - it's crowded enough already. But when he discovers the stowaway, he feels compelled to assist her on her quest. Will the orphaned girl who has never known love find family at last?

This is historical fiction set in a Biblical world rather than Biblical fiction like the previous book I read by the author, but I enjoyed it just as much. The character are beautifully drawn, and though the truth about Chariline's father felt obvious from very early on, watching her search and discovery unfold made for a great read. Some very deep, thought-provoking and inspiring episodes are expertly interspersed with lighter passages, and the thread of suspense is woven through in a way that keeps the reader on their toes without in any way distracting from the main search. All in all, a great read and I definitely hope to read more by the author in future.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Once again, Tessa Afshar pens a novel that is rich in its detail and imagery! I love how she brings emotion and depth to Biblical stories with her fictional tales. This story caused me to examine myself and apply the spiritual lessons to my own life. I loved the theme of God’s use of our scars for His greater glory and purpose. I also found myself falling in love with the characters. Theo has appeared in Tessa’s other novels, and what a delight to read about him again. And Chariline has a rough background, but it was such a joy to read about how she overcame her circumstances. There is a bit of mystery and suspense as Chariline searches for her father and this story easily kept my attention. I greatly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it to all readers, even if you are not typically a reader of Biblical fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Thank you in advance to the publisher, Tyndale House as well as NetGalley for providing an review copy through the author’s launch team. A positive review was not required or requested, all words are my own.

While I’ve been reading Historical Fiction for a few years, Biblical Fiction is definitely new territory for me. It wasn’t until last February (2020), that I read my FIRST biblical fiction story.

Background –> my mother has enjoyed movies like The Ten Commandments, The Story of Ruth, etc. Yet, those movies never interested me. Not that I wasn’t into learning more about the stories – watching movies wasn’t for me.

The first book I read –> Tessa Afshar’s Daughter of Rome.

Jewel of the Nile is a standalone read, but in a surprise twist; Priscilla and Aquila are not only mentioned, but have a prominent part in this book as well. Theo is also mentioned in both Daughter of Rome as well as Thief of Corinth. They’re not required to read before this one, but they make excellent companion stories to complete the background for Jewel of the Nile.

Theo, Priscilla, and Aquila are not the only ones in this book. Jewel of the Nile is about Chariline’s search for a father she long believed was dead. The characters are all well balanced, well-written, and are people the reader can easily invest their emotions in. This is told from Theo and Chariline’s point of view.

In addition to Chariline, there is the mysterious Natemahar who she has known she was seven. But, who is he other than the Queen’s trusted treasurer? Does he know something about Chariline’s father?

Who is the couple in the prologue that we meet 25 years before this story begins?

Afshar’s writing is so vivid and descriptive it almost transports one back into those times. The short chapters, action, and engaging story help the story flow right along and doesn’t linger in one place at all; thus making it a very easy read and extremely hard to put down.

Right off this was gripping, mysterious, and riveting. It captured my attention and didn’t let go. Very seldom do I read a book in one whole day (24-hour period). It usually takes 1-2 days. This one? I read this in less than 12 hours. It was THAT good!

The prologue sets an interesting stage of an illegal marriage between the daughter of a Roman, Gemina, and an unknown male.

Chariline has been raised by her mother’s sister, since her mother died in childbirth. Her mother’s parents haven’t wanted anything to do with her until she was 12. And, she’s never been allowed to speak of her father. Even her name is spoken with wincing and disgust. The origins of it unknown.

But, Chariline soon learns her father is really alive at the palace. Even her friend Natemahar warns her against the search, even telling her she is never to go to the palace.

She isn’t one to stay away though and wants to meet her father. She is eventually given a chest of her mothers with letters from a friend. That leads Chariline to travel to the palace and gets the wrong idea of who her father is.

She then decides to travel to Rome to find her mother’s friend who she hopes can lead her to the identity of her father.

It isn’t long until the relationship between Theo and Chariline blossoms as he allows her to travel to Rome with certain conditions, which she agrees to. When she falls ill, he is the one to care for her.

She apparently wins over Sophocles, one of the men on his ship. It is clear that Theo has claimed Chariline in his heart and will do what he can to keep her safe. And, she is drawn to him as well.

When they arrive in Rome, a stalker almost attacks her, but it is Theo who saves her.

It was such a delight to see Priscilla and Aquila (along with Ferox their dog) again. They are who Theo and Chariline stay with in Rome.

As the Theo helps Chariline look for her mother’s friend, the two bond in friendship, but for Theo it is more. Chariline’s search reveals far more than she realizes and she is in far more danger than she knows when someone goes to extreme lengths to silence her.

While I was reading, I couldn’t help but think it had to deal with her father. Since I don’t want to spoil this – I won’t.

Jewel of the Nile was definitely mesmerizing. Afshar not only writes a beautiful love story, a rich family saga, but a mystery as well.

She drew the mystery of the stalker to almost the end with a few surprises along the way. To say this was a delight to read is an understatement! It was a joy and privilege to read. And, it is definitely HIGH on the “books to re-read (when you have the time)” pile.

Fans of the author and genre shouldn’t hesitate to pick this one up! I have Afshar’s Pearl in the Sand on my TBR list and definitely want to read it. After reading Daughter of Rome and Jewel of the Nile, I wouldn’t hesitate to read the author’s other books as well, or any future ones.

As a reminder, this is not only distributed by a Christian/faith-based publisher (Tyndale House), but this story is BIBLICAL FICTION. Many of the ideas expressed and standards presented will be from that time and setting. These will seem seem outdated by modern standards and views. Some readers might even find the content offensive given what Biblical times were like.

This book also has major religious themes, references, and mentions that are integral to the plot. Anyone who is not a fan of Biblical fiction or bible stories should pass this one up.

Jewel of the Nile
Another jewel from the fabulous Christian author Tessa Afshar.
A young Cushite And Gemina have ran away and married, but as the daughter of a Roman official it was not allowed by Kandake, the queen. 25 years later we see the result of their marriage, Chariline. Chariline overhears her grandparents talking about her presumed dead father who is very much alive and working at the palace. This starts her adventure. She enlists her longtime friend, Natemaher, to help and learns to pray and trust the Lord along her journey. She discovers a clue that leads her to stow away on Theo’s ship heading to Rome. Her steps are followed by a Cushite warrior whose been paid to kill her. Chariline learns to trust Theo’s God and her eyes are opened to God’s many gifts and forgivenesses. Continue the story of Chariline and purchase this book as soon as possible.
I was sent an advanced copy by Netgalley for my honest opinion.

Every single time I read a new book by Tessa Afshar, my expectations are through the roof, and she has never failed to deliver! Her latest book, Jewel of the Nile, is certainly no exception!
The story pulled me in from the start with its complex, relatable characters; intriguing, unpredictable plot; and amazing attention to historical detail. It made me feel as if I had journeyed back in time to when the early Christians lived in Rome.
The book focuses on Chariline, a bi-racial young woman who has been raised as an orphan by her aunt. While visiting her mother’s parents before her grandfather’s retirement from his post as a Roman official, she overhears that her Cushite father is still alive. Against her grandparents’ wishes, she starts to search in earnest to find him and stows away on a vessel that will take her to where she believes her father might be living. With this bold step, Chariline begins an adventure that will change her life and those she encounters in ways they could never have predicted.
I love how Afshar wove some characters from the Book of Acts, as well as a touch of romance, into this enchanting, suspenseful tale of redemption and second chances. It is an inspirational, spiritually sound story I will not soon forget.
Jewel of the Nile is without doubt a stand-alone book. However, those who have read Afshar’s Thief of Corinth or Daughter of Rome will enjoy the tie-ins to those previous works. I recommend this book, as well as all other works by this gifted author, to anyone who enjoys novels about Biblical times.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, but the opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

I’ve been deeply moved and blown away by this authors’ previous novels; Pearl in the Sand, and Land of Silence. I was surprised that I had a hard time connecting with strong-willed main character Chariline. She leaps before she thinks things through and puts herself and others in danger. I enjoyed the drama, the mystery behind her parents’ marriage and the sudden awareness that her father is alive.

The author has her characters hit the high seas as well as ride aboard a river barge down the mighty Nile River, traveling between Rome and Cush trying to track down the identity of her father. I also thought it was fun to catch up with Pricilla and Aquilla. Many people said in their reviews that it didn’t make a difference having read the other books that included characters brought back in this novel, but I think in my case it would have made a difference. I enjoyed Theo which had me wishing I had read the book he was featured in Thief of Corinth, before this one.

I still enjoyed the history, the scenes on their boat journeys and watching characters walk out their spiritual journey. Pricilla sharing with Chariline,“The Problem is that when you are flesh-driven, you cannot be Spirit-led.”

I also liked how Theo told Chariline to trust God with her scars. I liked the poem entitled Angel Scars, that talks about the scars we bear. In our souls. In our bodies. Theo says, “You have to allow Yeshua to tell you the truth. Stop listening to your scars. You are not God’s mistake, Chariline. You are his glory.” I like how Theo is vulnerable and shares his insight about God and scars. “God sees us for our redeemed heart, not for our scars – for our shame and guilt. Instead, he takes those completely away.” Amen! Amen!

Jewel of the Nile shows the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome the lies of the enemy. I enjoyed the suspense and mystery as Charilines is obsessed in tracking down clues that will reveal her fathers' identity. Oh, I have to give a shout-out to Sophocles, he is a sweet loveable gentle and wise soul. I enjoyed the nuggets of truth he sprinkled throughout and the themes of belonging, family, abandonment, friendship. I enjoyed the hints of well-timed humor mixed into the danger and intrigue. This book would make for a good read and one for your book club.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. 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”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

Jewel of the Nile was my first Tessa Afshar book, but it won't be my last! In this Biblical fiction were real Biblical characters (Philip, the Ethiopian eunuch) are secondary characters to the fictional story - lends an air of authenticity to this story. I enjoyed imagining what life would have been like in these cities and time periods. Also, the story of Theo (whose story is started in Thief of Corinth and the Roman's Daughter - which I haven't read YET!) and Chariline, who both have complicated pasts, is sweet and fun to watch unfold. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Tessa Afshar in the future.

Thanks #NetGAlley for this ARC of #JeweloftheNile

I'm always excited to hear about a new release coming from Tessa Afshar and this one certainly didn't disappoint! I love Biblical fiction in general, but I always know I'm in for a treat when I pick up one of her books. I liked the element of mystery in this one and it truly helped keep the pages turning. I also liked the spiritual growth in Chariline, and that it felt natural to the story progression instead of forced or added. The characters were intriguing, and I enjoyed the humor sprinkled throughout. Oh, how I especially loved Socrates, and hoped he would come to find peace in Christ. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can't wait to see what the author comes up with next!
*I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

Writing a review of a book of this high of caliber is a difficult task because everything about the novel is superb. The plot line, the characterization, and messages of the novel are all spectacular. The journey of Chariline is a journey of identity. On the surface it is about finding the identity of an earthly father, but at its essence it is about finding our identity in our heavenly father. Do we truly believe and live out that identity?

Interwoven into the novel is the continuing story of Theo. Theo was featured in Afhsar's previous books "Thief of Corinth" and "Daughter of Rome." You do not have to have read those books to be able to follow Theo's arch in this book, but they are well worth reading or re-reading to aid you in on this journey. Nonetheless, Theo's tale finally gets the satisfying conclusion we Afshar fans have all been waiting for.

Best of all, Priscilla and Aquila from "Daughter of Rome" return. This novel also interweaves the story of the Ethiopian eunuch. "Jewel of the Nile" takes us into the heart of the early book of Acts and the circumstances faced by the early believers. It shines the light on their faith and its relevance in our modern world.

Without a doubt, this novel is a stellar addition to the world of Biblical Fiction.

I received a 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 Testimonials in advertising.

Jewel of the Nile continues the story of Theo, who is found in Thief of Corinth, and Daughter of Rome. It also introduces Chariline, a young Cushite orphan who is seeking information about her father. The main theme throughout the book is releasing the lies that bind you and accepting your worth as a child of God. Theo, we know, feels unworthy and betrayed after learning his father's identity and mother's circumstances. And Chariline feels guilt for being alive while her mother died birthing her: a lie expounded by her aunt and grandfather's dislike of her. As the story goes on, both learn to realize they have been believing lies, and that they can be complete and guiltless before God. They also learn to trust their friends with the parts of their lives that feel inferior. Charline says when sharing her life's story with Priscilla and Aquilla: "All my life, my grandparents lied to me. They hid the truth because, from their limited perspective, they were doing me a service. If I have learned one thing from their example, it is this: hiding the truth gains nothing but an invitation for the powers of darkness to multiply. I have nothing to hide. The Lord knows it all. You are welcome to my story." This can also be taken as a reminder to tell the truth, and not play judge and jury with another's life.
As Chariline becomes more and more intent on discovering who her father is, she is reminded that it cannot be her most important goal; neither can it take importance over wise, and safe decisions. Priscilla tells her; "It's not the nature of your longing that is at issue. It is the fact that God does not reign over it. Finding your father has become the jewel you refuse to part with. Not even if God asks it. In that part of your heart, at least, your flesh still rules. The problem is that when you are flesh-driven, you cannot be Spirit-led."
I really liked that these themes were so obvious throughout the book. The other obvious themes were the budding romance between Theo and Chariline, and whomever is after her. All in all I enjoyed the book and was glad to have the opportunity to read it.

I received a copy of this book from NETGALLEY and was not required to write a positive review.

Jewel of the Nile by Tasha Afshar is quite the adventure. She uses real biblical characters in the book alongside her fictional hero and heroine. This story starts in ancient Cush and goes to Rome and back again. I enjoyed the mystery and romance of these characters as they run for their lives and make life changing discoveries. I also love how the author uses scripture and always has an inspirational message.
*I was given a copy of this book by Tyndale and this is my honest opinion.
4.25 stars