Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar

Jewel of the Nile
by Tessa Afshar

ISBN-13: 9781496428752
Hardcover: 432 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House
Released: June 1st 2021

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
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. 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.


My Review:
Jewel of the Nile is a Christian romance mainly set in Cush, Rome, and on a ship in 56 AD. This continues the story of one of the characters in "Thief of Corinth," but you don't have the read that book to understand this one. Through the events of the story, Chariline grew as a person and learned from her mistakes, learning to consult God's will in her decision-making rather than simply justifying what she wanted to do. Both she and Theo share similarities in their pasts as well as a feeling of responsibility for their mothers' deaths shortly after their birth and of abandonment by their parents. While trying to help each other see their value and the misplaced guilt, they find emotional healing. They supported and built each other up.

The characters acted realistically, were likable, and grew as people. Historical and cultural details were woven into the story. Though a minor note: a ship in full sail would leave behind in seconds anything that fell overboard. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I recommend this enjoyable novel.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.