Chariline was raised as an orphan by her very rigid Aunt who has told her little of her parents' story. She has always wondered who her father was as her skin coloring tells her she is obviously a mixture of Cush and Roman; but even though she asks, she never is given an answer just that he is dead. But one night she overhears her grandfather talking to her aunt and learns that her father is alive. Thus begins a search that leads her on a search for her father in Cush, down the Nile, and finally in the city of Rome.

Tessa Afshar once again brings Biblical times to life as she introduces us to some of the lesser know characters of the Bible found in Acts. Her descriptions of the period in Cush bring that country to life and highlights what it was like for women during those times. Chariline was a daring young woman who was determined to find the answer to her question, but would the answer be more than she was looking for. I had to admit I was quite surprised at who her father was and the role he played in an important event in Acts. Theo was a perfect hero in helping Chariline find her father and the slowly developing romance between them was nice to watch. The inclusion of Priscilla and Aquila and the early Christians of Rome was also added to the plot.

Another great Biblical fiction read from Tessa Afshar.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

I didn't realize this was book 3 in a 'series' but it's so well done it stands alone. You don't need to know anything of the other stories to completely understand and be captivated.

I honestly didn't read the description, just the author name. In some cases, that's all I need. So while I was struck by some things that seemed Biblically familiar, and wondered if maybe this person was really who I thought he was, I was so swept away by the story that I didn't wonder too much. So when I figured out I was right, and when other things were revealed that I "should have known" it was very exciting!

The story is well crafted, real Bible characters make brief appearances, and I couldn't put it down. The intrigue and suspense play a marvelous background to the personal growth and faith journeys presented. If you are studying prayer, or want to learn to pray 'better' this book will give you some inspiration.

I received a copy of this book from #NetGalley, and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.

Tessa has a way of weaving the most lush, historical, sweetly romantic stories with refreshing humor and deep deep faith. By the time you are halfway in, you realize that her words are the tools God is using to bring much needed insight and healing. Jewel of the Nile does this with precision and grace . After reading Tessa’s other novels, especially Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome, I was eager to get my hands on this book. I devoured this novel. It does not disappoint and more than that, it is a delight. Not only is the story featuring Chariline and Theo moving to read, but I am so thankful that it features a heroine that looks similar to me and my daughters. There were many parts in this book where I had tears in my eyes as I chewed on the words and implications. Chariline’s search for her father will shine light into your own heart, revealing what you value the most and how that relates to ultimate trust in Jesus. Thank you Tessa for this jewel of a book.

I was an early reader, thanks to Tyndale House Publishers. All opinions are my own.

I didn't love this one nearly as much as I loved "Pearl in the Sand" and I did skim the beginning a bit since I figured out part of the plot, however, I can't wait to get my hands on a paperback copy and give a full review of this different take on Biblical fiction.

18+ due to content.

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

When I fall in love with a great book, I do it quickly. When it comes to Tessa Afshar’s books, I always fall fast. Firstly she always puts God first. Second, she always keeps it 100. Staying true to herself and her stories.

Jewel of the Nile is an adventure about love. Love of the earthly father, love of family, the fulfillment of love, and ultimately the love of our Heavenly Father. Our main characters quickly find that we find love all in Him – the Lord because he is love. And no matter how lacking and disappointing their pasts have been, God is still in control.
JTON’s setting was interesting. I loved reading about the ancient kingdom of The Cush (aka Ethiopia) and the part they played within the Roman Empire. So if you love your fiction packed full of history, this book is meant for you. Along the journey, you meet real characters such as Philip the evangelist and the eunuch from Acts renamed Natemahar. You also run into Priscilla and Aquila once again and get another peek at the early church.
One of my favorite characters hands-down was Arkamani. He made me laugh out loud, especially when it came to his family. As I like to say, the Cuteness Factor was off the charts! Kudos to Tessa for another great novel. Over the years, she has defined Christian fiction for many and continues to write such wonderful stories.

I get excited every time I see Tfshar's new books and this one was no exception!
Her stories never disappoints me.
Five stars!
This is my favorite story by this author! Her novels always leave my heart feeling full and satisfied and they have some awe inspiring messages throughout the book.
Great characters and plot to go along with it.
The theme of forgiveness was awesome too. Forgiveness is never easy but it does give one a peace of mind.
I really enjoyed Chariline's adventures a lot and a lot of it I can definitely relate to. She's a courageous and gutsy woman. I liked her a lot!
This is my favorite quote.
" Yeshua is not against you, Chariline Theo said. Do not give up. Not until God makes his will clear."
A great reminder that God has a greater plan than ours and that He's always watching out for His children. He loves us unconditionally. He wants us to come to Him. He is always with us. I love that don't y'all?
I was happy to see some of the characters from the previous novels as well..
The descriptive scenes of the scenery made feel like I was seeing it through Chariline for the first time too.
The only thing I had trouble with was the pronouncing of the names.
I highly recommend. You'll not be disappointed at all!
My thanks for a copy of this book!
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

TESSA AFSHAR'S novels are well worth waiting for and JEWEL OF THE NILE is certainly no exception! What a lovely book and what a beautiful message. I particularly like the scripture verses at the beginning of each chapter which really fit in and enlarge the reading experience. To me the main message is that of Jesus being the only one who can make broken people whole, and that we need to see ourselves, scarred though we may be, through His eyes. As Theo says, "The trouble with scars is that they tell their own twisted story. They make you see yourself through their own distorted mirror." There is also the longing for family and to belong, and the debilitating effects of guilt and the inability to forgive oneself.
The story starts with Chariline visiting her grandparents in Meroë, the capital of Cush. At their home she hears something she is not meant to hear which sends her to Rome in search of the truth. There is something else she overhears, this time in the Kandake's court, which leaves her confused as to what she should do with the information.
Desperate to get to Rome, she stows away on Theodotus of Corinth's ship. We have met Theo before in Thief of Corinth and Daughter of Rome. I must add, though, that each of these wonderful novels can definitely stand alone.
I enjoyed everything about this book and cannot recommend Jewel of the Nile highly enough, especially to anyone who enjoys biblical historical novels.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.