Jewel of the Nile takes readers on an exciting adventure through ancient Rome and Cush.
Book Blurb
Whispered secrets about her parents’ past take on new urgency for Chariline as she pays one last visit to the land of her forefathers, the ancient kingdom of Cush.
Raised as an orphan by her aunt, Chariline has only been told a few pieces of her parents’ tragic love story. Her beautiful dark skin is proof that her father was Cushite, but she knows nothing else. While visiting her grandfather before his retirement as the Roman official in the queen’s court, Chariline overhears that her father is still alive, and discovering his identity becomes her obsession. Both her grandfather and the queen have reasons for keeping this secret, however, and forbid her quest. So when her only clues lead to Rome, Chariline sneaks on the ship of a merchant trusted by friends.
Theo is shocked to discover a stowaway on board his vessel and determines to be rid of her as soon as possible. But drawn in by Chariline’s story, he feels honor-bound to see her safely to shore, especially when it appears someone may be willing to kill for the truth she seeks.
In this transformative tale of historical fiction, bestselling author Tessa Afshar brings to life the kingdom of Cush and the Roman Empire, introducing readers to a fascinating world filled with gripping adventure, touching romance, and a host of lovable characters–including some they may recognize from the biblical book of Acts.
My Thoughts
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 you close 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.)
Further Information
Tessa Afshar is an award-winning author of historical and biblical fiction. Her novel Daughter of Rome was a Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestseller. Thief of Corinth was an Inspy Award finalist, and Land of Silence won an Inspy Award and was voted by Library Journal as one of the top five Christian fiction titles of 2016. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious Christy Award in the historical romance category, and Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the ECPA Christian Book Award in the fiction category. Tessa also recently released her first Bible study and DVD called The Way Home: God’s Invitation to New Beginnings, based on the book of Ruth.
