I loved this book by Tessa Afshar! I couldn’t get enough of it! It’s a Christian fiction novel about a young girl in the household of Daniel, yes, Daniel of the Bible. The author gave him a family because the Bible doesn’t say if he had a family or not, but in this story Daniel isn’t the top character. As it starts out it seems he will be, but as the story continues Keren, the young lady working in Daniel’s household, Jared, a friend of Keren and Daniel’s son, and Cyrus. You will find out who he is when you read the novel. :) This is a great Christian fiction novel. I recommend to all especially those who enjoy Christian, Christian Fiction or Inspirational books. Thank you to #NetGalley and the author, Tessa Afshar, and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review #TheHiddenPrince with my honest thoughts and opinions.

Tessa Afshar weaves an incredible story about a time period we don't read about in a regular history class. Unless you're studying Ancient History, Babylonian Captivity, Daniel, Cyrus, or Nehemiah in depth. This time in Persia was new to me, aside from Afshar's Harvest of Gold and Harvest of Rubies, which are a little later, but close to this time.
Keren makes a shocking mistake that was quite disturbing to me, but experiences extravagant grace and forgiveness. Her move sets her and other characters in the novel on a very different trajectory than they'd ever imagined. She ends up educating a young shepherd boy in a land where she must learn a new language. Anyone who's ever lived in another country will relate.
This book kept me on edge the entire time and I can't wait for the sequel, which I'm assuming must come.

I have absolutely loved everything Tessa Afshar has written and this book was no different. I've been in a bit of a reading slump here lately (meaning that I typically go through 2-3 books a week and I've been barely able to get 1 each week to week and a half), but I was able to finish this one in just over 2 days. Afshar has a knack for bringing ancient Biblical times culture to life for the reader, teaching poignant spiritual lessons, all while telling a rich story infused with adventure, romance and humor. This book takes place in the time of Judah's Babylonian captivity. Daniel (as in "and the lion's den") is a major Bible character who plays a secondary character in this one. Our heroine Keren comes under the employ of Daniel when her parents can't afford to feed all of their family members. While living in Daniel's household, Keren is also educated in Daniel's "tablet house" alongside his sons and their friend. When a tragic accident sends her packing, she comes to learn the truth to all things working together for the good of those who love God.

I really enjoyed the characters in this book. I always enjoy when writers of Biblical fiction give the main character spots to fictional people as that allows them to shape the thoughts and emotions of their characters more strongly. I also appreciate when well-known and loved characters from the Bible are within the story so that you have the context of timing within the scriptures as well. That said, this book was everything I love about Biblical fiction. Afshar stayed true to God's Word and Daniel's character, and created new wonderful characters within that context as well as a stunning plot line. While I figured out "who" the hidden prince was shortly before Keren learned of his identity, it was a completely satisfactory revelation and I really enjoyed how the author pulled out the details of Biblical and extra-Biblical history. I now want to delve more deeply into the history of ancient Persia. In addition to wonderful characters and an enchanting plot-line, this book also came stock full of lessons with themes of forgiveness, trusting in God and His timing, obedience and grace. All in all, this was a lovely piece of Biblical historical fiction and I would strongly recommend it to any fans of that genre.

Two other notes I will add - the author's note was helpful in determining what elements of the story were factual versus what elements were fictional. I was surprised by a couple of items! Also, since I read an e-copy of this one, I know I didn't get the full glory of the pictures, but each section of the book was prefaced with what I can only imagine is a stunning glimpse of the area where that section takes place. I'm now anxious to get my hands on a hardcover version of this one to see it in full color! Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar may be her best book yet. I thoroughly enjoyed turning each page imagining being in ancient Babylon and Persia watching history unfold. Can you even imagine being with the prophet Daniel and learning from him? The author did a wonderful job of setting the scenes without too much description and the romance between Keren and Jared was a beautiful thing to see unfurl. I loved the book and I highly recommend to anyone who loves Biblical fiction.

I loved everything about this book! I always feel Mrs. Afshar shines when her main characters are completely fictional and only interact with real Biblical characters as it gives her more room for her brilliant creativity. The settings in this book were fascinating and made me want to do more research to learn more about them. The characters were so compelling, complex, and thoroughly relatable. The story itself was riveting. I really just absolutely loved it! Will definitely be recommending it, gifting it, and re-reading it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley.

If you love being whisked away into a story, The Hidden Prince is the book for you!

This historical fiction story set in Biblical times was fantastic! I honestly can't get enough of this author's writing. There are so many layers to the story that have deep truths about God as well as our human nature. I thoroughly enjoyed the Biblical people who appear in the story to keep that thread of her writing, but the historical part really grabbed my attention.

We meet Keren as she begins to serve as a scribe for Daniel. An element I really enjoyed in this story was the humor. Keren wasn't one for domestic chores so as she tried to find her place in his home, it was no surprise she became his scribe. As the story progresses, you witness how God's plan unfolds in her life and the lives of the other main characters. How, even when we can't see what's ahead He can! I love how we experience this as readers through the characters lives.

We also get to know Jared, who ends up learning next to Keren. Their story is unexpected and is an incredible example of God bringing beauty from ashes. Through both of them, readers are reminded that God sees the end results of the various circumstances that happen in our lives as well as our own choices.

The shepherd boy Keren tutors is a kick in the pants. I think there were a couple opportunities with his storyline where he could've been taught, in a broader view, of the danger of some of his choices. Aside from that, his straightforward honesty adds levity to some of the seriousness of the story. You can see something great lays before him.

Forgiveness and redemption are powerfully part of this story. Also to imagine, in a fictional sense, everything that "needed" to transpire to impact the future of the Jews who were captive in Babylon was eye opening. While we're going through different experiences and moments in our lives, some may have an impact on future generations that we're unaware of. Seeing that so clearly in this fictional story was a great reminder of how we should try to live our lives and to trust the Lord when it seems impossible.

If you are looking for a truly immersive experience to take you back to the time of ancient Babylon, Tessa Afshar has delivered just that with this book.
Her writing transports you to the ancient times in such a way it's almost as if you can smell the exotic spices and hear the slap of sandals on the stone floors.
I rarely find books set during the Jewish Babylonian captivity. I really enjoyed the story setting and a glimpse into history.
When the twist came I didn't see it. Who the hidden prince was took me completely by surprise. And I loved the history that I learned through this book.
I personaly wasn't that into the romance part of this book, and I was a bit put off by the inaction of the hero.
Yet aside from that it still was still a very interesting, memorable read. Full of insight to a time gone by and nuggets and quotes that are worth remembering.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgally. All opinions in this book are my own and honest.

Tessa Afshar is not an author I have ever read before. However, someone close to me highly recommend her books. All I can say is, wow. The Hidden Prince is an extremely well-written book with a strong storyline and plot. Biblical fiction is not usually a favorite genre for me, and this book might have changed that for me. I was held captive by the storyline. I loved the richness of the characters and reading their interactions. Daniel, Keren, Jared, and all of the others do not live a life of luxury, but rather a precarious life of captivity as Jews in Babylon. I loved the strong tie-in of Biblical references and even the inclusion of Biblical prophecies and how the author wove her fictional plot through the lens of Scripture. During the story, one of the characters has a conversation with Daniel about suffering. Daniel refers to his three friends who, when faced with the fiery furnace, said that their God would deliver them, but even if He did not choose to do so, they still believed. This conversation brought me to tears. Pure, biblical truth painted in such a real and relatable way that was a challenge to my own heart and life. I highly recommend this book. You will be drawn into Keren’s story and find yourself in ancient Babylon living the story right along with her.

I requested and received a copy of this book for review. The words and opinions expressed in this review are wholly my own.

Another excellent masterpiece by Tessa Afshar. The book has much going for it. There is action, biblical aspects and a great love story. I was pulled into the book just by reading the description and the cover.

The "Hidden Prince" is a page-turner, well written and the characters are realistic. I would recommend this book to everyone but especially for those who loves curling up with a cup of hot coffee or tea with a great book on these fall day's.

Rating is 5 out of 5

Recommend to family and friend

I received this complimentary copy from the publisher for a honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone.

I have not read any of Tessa Ashfar’s other books but can’t wait to do that now. The Hidden Prince is wonderful, adventurous, inspiring Biblical fiction. From the very first page I was drawn into Keren’s journey. I loved Cyrus, what an engaging character! This story is filled with suspense, danger, betrayal and romance. It is not predictable but complex as it addresses themes of grace and mercy and following God’s plan even through great loss and pain. This book was delightful and truly hard to put down. Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale for the opportunity to read for my honest review.

An exquisite plot during biblical times
Tessa Afshar, award-winning and best-selling author of historical and biblical fiction, presents her book "The Hidden Prince", published by Tyndale House Publishers. Keren, a Jewish captive is sold as a slave to Daniel's household during the twenty-ninth year of King Nebuchadnezzar's reign to safe her family. Her father had chosen this household because he was convinced that she would be safe there. There is only one major challenge: Keren is not skilled in the various task that need to be done in a household but it turns out that she is very skilled as a scribe. A tragic accident causes her to flee to Persian where she is challenged with various things, her main task being the teaching of a shepherd boy. Though embittered by the accident, Jared cannot forget her. He follows her only to discover that Keren and the boy are in danger. Will he be able to help them and to protect them? What impact will Jared's and Keren's closeness have on their lives and on the lives of others?
This is the third book of Afshar (after "Pearl in the Sand") which I read. I highly appreciate it that she introduces every chapter with a Bible verse. Although the book is fiction Afshar paints such a great and realistic picture of the lives of Keren, Jared, and their families as well as of the shepherd boy and other main actors that one can imagine the realities of life was during this period of history. I highly recommend this book to readers who love Christian Historical Novels, especially those who also like some romance and mystery in their books.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheHiddenPrince #Netgalley

Keren’s family is in financial difficulties, so she’s given to Daniel as a servant. She’s a delight, not fitting in in the kitchen or laundry, but finding her place as a scribe. We meet Daniel’s family, what it may have been like in Babylon. Keren has to flee into exile after a horrible accident, and meets a future king.
Daniel shares his wisdom with the wounded Jared that is applicable today. Where do you draw the line for God? As his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednigo declared, even if God does not save us from harm, we will still worship him.

“I have a feeling that if we pick up the bundle of our disappointments and unfulfilled dreams and follow God’s plans one wobbly step at a time, in the end we will find our way home.

“Fire and lightning!” This is the best biblical fiction I’ve read to date!

Already feeling insignificant and unsure of her place in life, Keren now must flee Babylon after a terrible accident has left her the object of a powerful man’s wrath. From a young age, Keren has learned that life doesn’t always work out as she’d planned but she’s learned to trust God’s plan. When she sees how it’s given her peace and place after her parents sold her, she knows she must rely on it again when forced to flee. When she finally gets a glimpse of her purpose, the timing couldn’t be worse!

I loved Afshar’s reminders about how God’s timing isn’t always our timing, how we need to choose which story we’ll live out each day, and how we need to sort out our ‘even-ifs.’ Like Keren, I struggle to see the big picture in many experiences and could identify with her anguish.

The characters are superb! Keren and Jared are my favourite book couple now and Artadates is a close second. I feel like we’ve become friends since I’ve been with them in the valley experiences and hung in with them while they climbed to the heights. I know how they think, what they fear and what they live for each day. Afshar’s clear distinct voices in her alternate point of view structure is amazing. The dialogue is tailored to each character and the introspection is unique. It endeared them to me all the more!

A lesson I’ll take with me into next week is: ”Grace means allowing room for someone to grow.”

My heart is full and I’m emotionally affected by this spectacular book. My compass has been calibrated and aligned and I’m ready for the onward journey. Thank you, Tessa Afshar, for your poignant and touching story that paralleled my own bible study in Daniel this week and gave me reason to recalibrate and examine my walk.

This was one of my most anticipated Fall reads and I can report that it more than lived up to my expectations!

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

This is my first book by Tessa Afshar. Several author friends had strongly encouraged me to read Tessa’s books—I should have listened right away!

Biblical fiction is a favorite genre; however, I am a stickler when it comes to Jewish/Hebrew culture. Tessa’s THE HIDDEN PRINCE exceeded my expectations.

As with any credible Biblical fiction the story is based on historical/Biblical facts. Tessa took an unusual topic and weaved it into a believable, complex, exciting story.

Afshar gave the protagonist, Keren a Jewish voice—self-effacing, intelligent, with the usual teenage angst. As Keren matured, her voice was just as credible.

PLOT: Keren is “sold” to the prophet Daniel, during the Jewish people’s exile in Babylonia. Already proficient as a scribe, right down to the reeds and ink, Keren is immediately embraced into the family. That family included the handsome friend, Jared. Keren is included in the training of a scholar and the noble arts—including sword fighting. Keren is then commissioned to train a mysterious young shepherd boy in the same arts and sciences. When a horrible accident occurs, Keren must run for her life, however, she will not leave without the young boy, especially when she overhears a conversation as to who the young shepherd really is.

Tessa has forged into new territory with this Biblical historical novel and extrapolated an amazing premise and story. As a lover of the TANAKH (a.k.a. Old Testament), she has given a credible possibility with the characters and writing to support it.

Highly recommend to lovers of Biblical fiction, and those looking to try this genre for the first time.

I received a complimentary eBook of #THEHIDDENPRINCE from the publisher, Tyndale through #NetGalley for an honest review.

Once again, Tessa has gifted us with a powerful story full of so much depth and beauty that you can't help but feel awed by God's incredible work in our lives as you put the book down. Like the beginnings of a musical masterpiece that starts humbly yet rises in grandeur, Tessa draws us into the rich, vibrant world of Keren and Jared and Daniel and keeps us captivated for hours.

Characters: How can you not love Keren? She's humble and kind, a hard worker, and yet she has a certain plucky strength to her that you can't help but admire. My heart broke for the pain she went through after the accident, and my heart was knit even closer to hers as I watched her slowly, painfully, and yet gracefully work toward healing. Her faith and humility in God is something we should all seek to emulate--it's not easy to admit you were wrong.

As for Jared, I loved his strength and maturity, and he really was perfect for Keren. The questions and emotions he faces as he heals were portrayed very realistically--which isn't easy to do!

Tessa never disappoints when it comes to her romance, and this story was no different. I appreciated the slow, gradual build in their romance, and that they both had time to figure out themselves and their relationship with God before they pursued their relationship. It was a romance guided by their mutual trust in God and selfless love for each other, despite everything that said they shouldn't be together.

And of course, I must mention Keren's adorable little pupil. I found myself chuckling more than once at him (His "fire and lightning!" expression, for instance), and his relationship with Keren and Jared was so sweet. (view spoiler)

Plot: The story began a bit on the slow side (although it was never boring), but it quickly picked up around a third of the way through. After that, you hardly have a moment's time to stop and take a breath as you're whisked away on the adventure of a lifetime.

My favorite part about Tessa's books? She never sacrifices pacing or adventure even with an abundance of carefully-developed characters and deep themes woven into the story. Her stories always read as action-packed and edge-of-your-seat gripping as any suspense novel out there!

The only qualm I had with the plot was the rather excessive use of "Little did she know" or some variation of it at the end of several chapters. I know the purpose was to pique interest in the next chapter, but I felt the same effect could have been achieved in a less on-the-nose way.

Themes: What a beautiful representation this story is of how God moves through history, orchestrating all events for His divine purposes. Even the bad, the evil in this world, the mistakes we make, He is able to weave into His tapestry. All our pain is for a purpose, and we can rest comforted in that undeniable truth.

One of my favorite scenes was when Jared forgave Keren. His ability to forgive her despite the wound she dealt him shows how powerful God's love is--so strong that it can cover the greatest of wounds.

Truly, as Jared and Keren learned, God does indeed use all things together for His purposes, and ultimately, for His glory.

Perfect for fans of inspirational biblical fiction, The Hidden Prince will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the danger and political intrigue of Babylon's court. It's a journey that will leave you refreshed and convicted as you turn the last page. It's a journey that will change you forever.

The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar is a fantastic addicting read. I felt like I was there at that time period, along with the main character, Keren's journey. I am so grateful to finally read a book about what it was like to be Jewish in Babylonian times. The depth of the research done was quite refreshing, and it felt like I was walking through the streets.

Keren a Jewish girl who lives under the harsh rule of Babylon due to Judea being conquered. There are not many options for someone with her talents. ( Scribe) Keren becomes a scribe to Daniel not as a slave but not free. She is also trained in sword and other academic talents. When life takes a turn and she is on the run and ends up in Medea she is enrolled to teach a shepherd the art of different languages and sword.

I recommend this book highly for it's strong writing, amazing read and thorough research. It felt objective at the same time. Which is hard to find in books sometimes when religion is involved. So check it out on November 8th 2022. I was given this ARC by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Tessa Afshar is undoubtedly one of the best biblical fiction authors when it comes to bringing ancient times to life. She knocks it out of the park again with The Hidden Prince taking us back to the time of Babylon, the prophet Daniel and captivity for the Israelites. I loved the main character, Keren - she had such a humble heart and the way she handled her circumstances showed such courage and self-sacrifice. Daniel was exactly how I’ve always envisioned him in the Bible - kind, compassionate and extremely wise. And Jared! What a transformation - his character grew so much from beginning to end. I loved that Keren relied so much on the scroll of Jeremiah and memorizing his words to help carry her through such a hard circumstance. And I also loved the theme of sacrificing yourself and your own comforts to help others. Overall, it was a fantastic read and I can’t wait for Tessa’s next book!

Rating: 4 stars!
This book was wonderful! Tessa Afshar has the incredible talent of seamlessly weaving such incredible wisdom in the story and I adored that so much. The faith content in the book was amazing! I loved seeing both Jared and Keren have their separate journeys regarding their faith.

I also loved the characters so so much!! They were extremely endearing. I loved, loved seeing the growth of the main characters throughout the whole novel.

I also LOVED the plot. The beginning was okay for me but it picked up later on and I was extremely invested in it and I could not put it down.

The romance in the story was good too. Although I have to admit I wasn’t too focused on it but it was a sweet bonus.
I don’t want to reveal too much but this book was so so so good y’all.

The Hidden Prince offers a new favorite for Tessa Afshar fans. The romance was especially thrilling. Plenty of twists will keep the reader guessing until the very end. The theme of grace is beautifully done. I loved the idea of cultivating mercy and allowing others room to grow and change. Five stars!

Biblical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read. The Hidden Prince exceeded my expectations. Afshar is an expert storyteller and has woven a wonderful tale about the Prince who would one day become a Persian king. This particular king would have an extraordinary role to play in the lives of the captive nation of the Israelites. This fictional account is drawn from the Old Testament and is full of drama, adventure, duplicity, and romance. The characters are believable and realistically portrayed. The author brings readers a thoroughly captivating read with descriptive prose that makes the reader feel like you are right there in the scenes and realistic dialogue. Readers who enjoy historical fiction will not want to miss this one. It will hold the reader spellbound and wanting more.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.