🌊 As Sure as the Sea by Jamie Ogle

🐟Once she denied everything she believed in. Now she’d give anything to choose differently. But in the shadow of the Roman Empire’s persecution and the shame of her past, she fears that what she wants most will be forever out of reach.

🪸 About This Book:
- Christian Historical Fiction
- Eastern Roman Empire, AD 310
- POV: Demi and Nikolas
- Based on the legend of St. Nicholas of Myra
- Inspiring characters
- Filled with faith, hope and courage
- Christy Award Winning Author
- Published in 2025
- Parents Guide: religious persecution and prejudice, female character is intimidated and uncomfortable with looks and comments from men, mild descriptions of violence, imprisonment, torture and wounds.

🍊 My Thoughts:
If you know me, you know I absolutely loved Jamie’s first book “Of Love and Treason”. So I was fully prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions. I knew I quite possibly would be needing CPR after finishing the book. I was actually hesitant to start because I was afraid nothing would compare to her first book, but let me tell you, this novel did not disappoint! It is just as good as her first book, if not better! Her ability to write stories of faith and courage are unmatched. The Christian themes were devastatingly beautiful. I was in awe of the characters’ resilience in the face of extreme adversity; their growth and faith throughout the story was inspiring. This book made me want to be a better person and refocus my efforts and faith. This book is perfection. Yet another five star story from Jamie Ogle!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Jamie Ogle, Tyndale House and NetGalley for this gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.

Through the captivating words of Ms Ogle, I was transported to 310 AD and the early Christian church. Newly appointed Bishop, Nikolas, was sent to Myra in Greece where the persecuted church needed to meet in secret. But even in the dire, lean times, they had a solid hope in Christ. The author weaves an exceptional story of faith amidst danger and poverty, but showed that the people came together and shared the wealth of the gospel and the hope of the world to come. “This earthly life is short and full of strife, but there is a better, truer one coming. Let us set our gaze there.”
“The Lord has prepared work for each of us and while we have breath, we have purpose.”
There is a clear gospel message that should provide inspiration for all of us. Even in adversity, there is hope in Christ. These characters counted it an act of worship to care for those in need.
So many worthwhile themes are shown: forgiveness, faith, repentance, redemption, clear biblical teaching, and unfailing reliance on Christ and His word. This was an excellent story of the early Christians, with the added romance of Demi and Nikolas that enhanced the lessons we could all profit from.
Also interesting was the culture of the era and the occupation of diving for coral which added to the atmosphere.
This author is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*

As Sure as the Sea was one of my most highly anticipated releases of 2025. And I’m thrilled to report that it didn’t disappoint. Of Love and Treason was one of my favorite books of 2024. That novel, a fictionalized account of the real man behind the myth of Saint Valentine, was powerful and heartbreaking and stunningly crafted. It brought to mind some of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever encountered: the works of Madeline Miller, such as Circe and The Song of Achilles. Ogle’s work felt similar in that it was retelling a story that has over the course of centuries been transmuted into myth. Also, as with Miller’s work, Ogle’s debut had an incredibly strong sense of place, with settings well drawn enough to smell and taste and feel on your skin. In all of those attributes—the quality of the writing, the tone of the story, the vibrance of the settings and the breathing of fresh life and reality into a story so often mythologized—As Sure as the Sea in every way matched its predecessor.

As Sure as the Sea is the story of Saint Nikolas. Yes, that Saint Nikolas. If you’re unfamiliar with the real life behind the mythos of Santa Claus, you might expect the story of an elderly man of the frozen north to be housed in these pages. Instead, the Saint Nikolas of Ogle’s story is a young pastor who comes to Myra, a port city in the Mediterranean region of the Roman Empire. This was at the height of the Empire’s religious persecution against Christians, and pastors were being killed off at a rapid rate. Nikolas didn’t seek out the pastorate. He kind of fell into it. The last of a wealthy family, Nikolas wanted nothing more than to put that wealth to good use, providing for God’s children and for those who did not yet know Him. But in a time when tokens citing the worship of the emperor were necessary hold a job or even purchase food, even giving money away was dangerous for Christians.

Our other main character is Demitria, a coral diver. She’s been as one with the sea since her infancy, and is far more comfortable beneath the waves than on dry ground. This is in large part due to the martyrdom of her parents and sister, leaving Demi and her brother Theseus as orphans. But even Theseus doesn’t know the shame Demi harbors over that day, and why she works so hard to help the struggling Church. When she and Nikolas save each other on his first day in Myra, will they grow close enough and be brave enough to share their pain with one another?

I fell in love with both Nikolas and Demi pretty immediately. They’re both strong, beautiful, broken people, whose faith in God is at war with the shame they harbor over their respective pasts. There was a lot of brilliant character development in this novel, both in these two main characters and in the supporting cast. If you’ve read Of Love and Treason, there are a few crossover characters, which was an unexpected delight.

I loved everything about this book. From the writing to the setting, from the characters to the strong core of faith, from the romance to the tension that carried through to a satisfying conclusion, As Sure as the Sea is everything I hoped it would be and more. This is truly brilliant historical fiction. Both this book and its predecessor scratch the same itch for me as literary mythological retellings, but following early church fathers instead. I’ve always dreamed of finding Christian fiction that struck me as brilliant, beautiful enough in its prose to hold its own against general market literary fiction. In Ogle’s work, I can say that I’ve found it.

I haven't read this author before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was not only pleasantly surprised but I was left reeling after reading this book. Ogle brings biblical fiction to life in vivid detail. I fell in love with the characters from the beginning, relating to their struggles and personalities across the millennia, while being humbled as I was reminded of what true persecution of faith looked like in that time. I cannot wait to get my hands on more of her stories!

'As Sure as the Sea' is a phenomenal story based on the persecution rampant in the Eastern Roman Empire. Jamie Ogle includes the challenging theological and political issues that the early church encountered. The community of believers in this story come together to support each other and the vulnerable around them, just like the church we read about in Acts. Jamie Ogle writes beautifully dynamic characters who learn to trust God no matter what comes. This book stirs my faith to pray for the persecuted church today.

If you enjoy reading heart-pounding and inspiring historical fiction, then I recommend this book to you! I found Demi's career as a sea diver fascinating to read about, and the bits of romance are a really sweet addition.

Special thanks to the Publisher, Tyndale Fiction, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

“Evil prevails when good men are silent. It is my duty to the next generation to show them true justice and to speak on behalf of the innocent who cannot speak for themselves.”

Fantastic! A beautiful story that brings the persecution of the early church to life. This story is full of danger, betrayal, love and sacrifice. The friendships, found family, and romance themes are beautiful. Nikolas and Demetria have to battle their shame and feelings of inadequacy while building their faith and reliance on God. Inspiring! I will not forget this story anytime soon!

Favorite quotes:
“Lord, I am Your servant. I’ll do what You ask, and I’ll do it how You want me to.”

“Where there is breath and life, there is purpose. You’ll find it if you look.”

This ARC was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

Loved this story! The characters were fascinating and very relatable. The writing was captivating. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to Netgalley, Tyndale Fiction, and Jamie Ogle for the gifted copy of this book!

Jamie Ogle’s writing is incredibly descriptive and easy to read. She is officially an auto-read author for me. This is her second book, and it is just as moving and inspiring as the first. There is nothing like reading about the persecution and killing of Christians to make you grateful for your life of freedom in our day now. Their stories will definitely stay with me for a while.

This book was incredibly inspiring, and it was very interesting to read about one of the first churches in Christian History. I was also encouraged in my faith in many ways by this book. I related to both Nikolas and Demi in different ways. My heart was pulled along, broken, and put together again by this story!

Demitria is from a family of divers and dives for a living with her brother, Thesius. Demi is carrying a burden from her past and feels unworthy. She fights for her church to help provide as much as she can and keep those she loves safe. What happens when the new pastor keeps pushing her toward the very danger she is trying to avoid?

Nikolas is an heir of a large fortune who has been called to lead the church in Myra. He finds a church in great need of new leadership. He also needs help from a diver to retrieve his inheritance that has sunk to the bottom of the river. Can he keep his people safe while caring for the lost around them?

Nikolas and Demi’s story was so beautiful to me. I felt the tension of the characters, of wanting to fully love someone but also protect themselves from the deep pain of loss. Many characters had so much wisdom. The book is stock full of spiritual truths that just lifted my soul and spirit!

It was also fun to see the easter eggs and continuation of some characters from her first book, though it is unnecessary to read it first to enjoy this one. If you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction with spiritual reminders, hope, and love, then this book is for you!

I personally can’t wait for what’s next for Jamie Ogle, because her research and detail is always impeccable, her writing is so easy to read, and I’m engaged no matter what!

I received this eARC from Netgalley and the publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.

Content Guide:
Language: None
Spice: Level 1: Kissing Only
TW: grief, serious injury, persecution, torture (non-descriptive)
Content Considerations: None

“As Sure As The Sea” is a historical fiction book set during the time of Christian persecution in Roman territories. I loved this book! After a few days of reflecting on it I’ve decided to give it 5 stars. The characters went through so much growth throughout the book. The scenes depicting persecution were heartbreaking and felt so real. The beautiful descriptions of the sea were among my favorite parts of the book. Thank you Netgalley for providing me a free ARC to review, this will not be my last Jamie Ogle book!

Experience a captivating historical Christian novel set against a backdrop of seaside beauty during a time of Christian persecution. Journey alongside the main characters as they face their shame, navigate profound losses, and confront feelings of inadequacy. Their quest for a deeper faith leads them to discover the transformative power of God’s forgiveness. Through their struggles, they learn that despite their flaws, they can honor Christ in their everyday lives. An inspiring read that will resonate with your heart! 🙏

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book and read it with pleasure and a few tears. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Tyndale House Publishers, Tyndale Fiction, and NetGalley.

As Sure As The Sea - Jamie Ogle - review 7 stars!!

Jamie Ogle has done it again! She has penned a stunning masterpiece that hums with energy and life as it tumbles along to its unexpected conclusion.

Nikolas is the new pastor at Myra and as always, in times of persecution, leadership is even more challenging. The question remains: does the church lie low or does she continue to reach out in love, providing spiritual and physical sustenance not just for the faithful, but the poor and the hopeless who need it.

He is ably assisted by Demitria of Myra, the best coral diver in these parts who has lost family to persecution and tries to lie low while also ferrying much needed grain in secret. Why secret? Christians are not allowed to buy or sell without libelli and to get one of those, you'd have to damn your soul to hell.

Both of them have their own demons and past memories to fight, adding atmosphere to the novel. You also meet old friends in Titus, Iris and Beatrice, who are the supporting cast.

Ms. Ogle has done a great job in racheting up the tensions bit by bit as the story moves along, so much so that at one point I succumbed, and read the end. Then, went onto calmly finish and enjoy the book.

I won't tell you what that end it, but it is explosively good. At the end, I felt satisfied. Replete. I had been fed - spiritually and emotionally and mentally. It's a rarity for me to feel this way after a good book.

Buy the book, read it, enjoy it, love it and feel fulfilled. I was given an ARC copy to read, but the opinions expressed are mine alone.

#AsSureAsTheSea #NetGalley #TynedaleFiction #BiblicalFiction #Emotive #RealFeel #CameAlive #JamieOgle #TheBookishPilgrim

I love this story for being set during a unique time period that isn’t highly represented in historical fiction. I was immersed in the setting of the early church along the shores of the Mediterranean. Jamie does an incredible job of bringing to life the true challenges and persecutions faced by the early Christians, the likes of which might be unbelievable to modern readers.
Though much of what they faced seems foreign to us, the characters have relatable struggles like feeling the shame & guilt over their past, the need to prove themselves, & grappling with the loss of loved ones. I absolutely loved the integration of Scripture, the focus on the active love of the gospel, and the fidelity to the true faith laced all throughout the story!

It’s rich in historical and setting detail with a slower paced plot. So I would take that and the time period into context when deciding if this is the book for you.

Thank you to Tyndale for the complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.

I truly have no words. I went into this book expecting to enjoy it, but for the first few chapters I wasn't sure. But that doubt quickly went away. This book is one of the most impactful that I have ever read! I expected a good historical Christian fiction book but this was so much more! As Sure as the Sea takes place nearly 250 years after the birth of the early church, during the time of Emperor Galerius. This was probably one of the worst periods of persecution for the church, both in methods and numbers but also because the church was still young. This book follows Demi and Nikolas as they overcome their shame, losses, and feelings of inadequacy for Christ. As the book progresses, they learn that no matter what they have done in their past they can still live for Christ and are not a lower class Christian because of what they may have done. They have both struggled with losses that were caused by the persecution and it is a struggle to be able to form relationships because of that. Demi's brother Theseus also plays a big part in the story and in helping Demi and Niko overcome these struggles. Demi continues to face struggles in her job because of her faith and Niko struggles to be able to serve the church well as pastor because of the persecution and lack of resources. Things start to look up for them and the love shared between them grows. Until they are betrayed by someone claiming the faith and are arrested. For months Niko and Theseus are kept in the emperor's prison and tortured every day. Demi fears that they are dead and learns how to navigate life without them, all while taking over and continuing some of the work that Niko was doing while still with the church. Demi, too, is arrested along with most of the church at a later date. Just as they are all taken out for execution during one of the pagan festivals, the decree of The Edict of Toleration is announced and God spares them from death. Niko and Demi find their way back to each other with God's help and end up marrying and growing closer to Jesus every day. This book really challenges your faith and makes you truly stop and think about how you would act and what you would say or do if confronted by persecution. If you knew that claiming Christ was sure death or torture, would you still do it? Do you really love Christ with every bit of all you've got?? This book is so impactful and absolutely worth a read! Every Christian should read this book at least once! This book has to be one of the best that I have ever read!

I absolutely loved this book! The characters, the story, the history were all wonderful. It was a slow start but I'm so glad I took the time to get into it. It combines a great story with real Christian faith and together they make for a delightful and beautiful book.

My meager words can't do justice to this story of love that transcends life and of grace upon grace.
Put this (and Of Love and Treason if you haven't already read it) on your MUST READS list. Of Love and Treason was one of my top 2 reads in 2024. January isn't over yet, but As Sure as the Sea is set to be one of my top reads in 2025- it's going to take a doozey to knock it out of the number one spot.
A few quotes to share:
Where there is breath and life, there is purpose. You'll find it if you look.
There is no safety. Only the illusion of it.
But the greatest work of the church does not happen at the morning river meetings, but in the markets, at the wells, in the shops and kitchens- in our lives, and how we live and give the gospel.
To die in times like these is easy. To live, that is the difficult thing.
I received a free copy of As Sure as the Sea from Netgalley and Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Thank you to @netgalley and Tyndale Fiction for my gifted copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.]

After reading and absolutely LOVING Jamie Ogle’s first book, Of Love and Treason, I had high expectations for As Sure as the Sea. Thankfully, it did not disappoint! I was so excited to read this book, and it definitely lives up to all the hype. This is an upcoming release you don’t want to miss!

Set in 310 A.D. in part of the Roman Empire, this book follows Dimetria and Nikolas (a familiar figure), who are members of the early church, living under severe persecution of Christians. I’ve read books set shortly before or shortly after this period, but never 310 A.D.. The setting in time and place were both really special and interesting to read a story about!

This book was so vivid and heart wrenching, but also so hopeful and beautiful, with very deep faith themes. These characters experienced and overcame so much, by God’s grace. I loved watching their stories unfold, the romance, and learning more of early church history through an incredible story. 🥹

Moving. Beautiful. Inspiring. Convicting.

Absolutely recommend! 🤍

“𝐎𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧. 𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐡𝐞’𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐭, 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡.”

𝐀𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚 was such an incredible book! Everything about it was interesting and I learned so much while having an amazing time.

First of all, the setting was immaculate. I loved the descriptions of the Mediterranean as well as the details of the culture and time period. Also, Demitria’s unusual profession as a diver made this the perfect summer read!

Furthermore, the historical details were very well-written and researched. I felt like I was stepping straight into AD 310 (which is a time period I haven’t read much from!). It was also interesting learning about the persecution the Christians faced in that time period. Another interesting topic was the bad theology that was gaining popularity. In fact, some of that bad theology is still prevalent today, it just looks a little different.

Another part of this book that I loved were the characters. They were incredibly compelling, and I feel like every Christian shares at least a little fear of what Demi went through. Nikolas was also such a great character, and I enjoyed learning about the historical figure he represents. Both of them had such a tragic past, and watching them grow made me so happy!

There was so much more about this book that I enjoyed—the writing, the Faith, the plot!—sadly, I want to keep this review at a reasonable length so I won’t get into all of that. However, I recommend you do yourself a favour, (especially if you love Christian Historical Fiction), and go grab a copy as soon as it comes out (or pre-order it!). 𝐀𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚 releases on February 11th—I highly recommend it!

***𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤. 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧.

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★

𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Christian Historical Fiction

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 365

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: Level 3 - Kissing

𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: February 11, 2025

Oh. My. Word. She did it again. This story was fantastic! And...it was actually difficult to read. It was like I was on pins and needles the entire time. Waiting for the other shoe to drop. Waiting for the inevitable to happened. The anxiety and difficulty these people in the early days of the church went through...well, it certainly puts into perspective some things. Nevertheless, as difficult as parts of this story were to read, it was a welcoming reminder of all God did for us by sending His Son Jesus. Of all Jesus did for us by dying on the cross. By taking our shame and sin. A much-needed addition to your bookshelf. You will be changed and challenged by this story. Enjoy it.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This a beautiful, descriptive story set in the Roman Empire, AD 310. I don't read a lot of biblical fiction, but I'm always so moved when I do.
The storyline in itself is so unique but also takes a dive into an anti-Christian era where Christians were brutally tortured and killed for not declaring allegiance to the emperor.
There were parts in the story that were really hard to read. But the author really did an incredible job of encouraging my faith, in showing the beauty of the believers that sacrificed their lives for their faith and would not deny Christ.

"Peter wasn't worthy of forgiveness. None of us are." She let out a breath. "That is why Jesus came in the first place. That is the reason for the gospel. We aren't worthy of it." "No." Nikolas tilted his face toward her and her damp curls brushed his cheek. "But it's offered to us anyway. And instead of condemnation, He calls us chosen, beloved."

*I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Jamie Ogle delivers another stunning story with "As Sure as the Sea". This one is set in A.D. 310 Myra (part of modern day Turkey) and is about the early Christian church and is a historical fiction about the legend of St. Nicholas. Demi and her brother are divers looking for red coral to be used in jewelry and food items for their employer. They are lucky to be employed, as early Christians often did not have jobs due to persecution from the Roman Emperor of the time.

On a dangerous dive, Demi meets Nicolas whose ship went down with bags of gold he planned to use to help the Christian church of Myra. As they get to know each other, Demi agrees to dive for the lost treasure and the two forge a friendship to help those around them despite the challenges of persecution.

This book has so much packed into it and I couldn't put it down. The writing is excellent and the story is compelling. There are very difficult moments detailing the type of persecution early Christians faced but there are also moments of great joy. The story takes many twists and turns along the way both good and bad. This is an incredibly faith-filled Christian book and the use of scripture is well done. The faith struggles and resolutions that the characters experience are encouraging to the reader.

I would highly recommend this for a Christian fiction book club read as there is so much to discuss. I'm hoping my own book club chooses this one for a fall read!

I would recommend this one for ages 16+ as it has descriptions of the dangers and physical persecution experienced by real early Christians.

Lastly, this is a Christian fiction book and is very faith filled and the writer points the reader to God. It is well done and I consider this a must read for Christian fiction readers.

Thank you to Netgalley and Tyndale House Publishers for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.