Pearl In the Sand

by | Oct 13, 2020 | Book Review

I was blessed to read Pearl in the Sand when it first debuted. Rahab novels abound in Biblical fiction. However, I found this novel unforgettable. Imagine my delight when a gorgeous 10th anniversary edition just released. With gold gilt, no less!

Tessa Afshar’s Rahab is such a lovable character. Forced into prostitution, Rahab bears a terrible weight of shame. Freedom seems impossible. Men want only one thing from her. Despite her circumstances, she finds an unlikely place in Jericho by the city wall. Her ability to gather information for the city leaders proves her to be more than a lovely ornament. I couldn’t help but admire Rahab’s intelligence and spirit.

When a certain spy finds refuge within her house, Rahab quickly forms a plan to save her family and herself. Despite Rahab’s deep wounds, she dares to dream again. Can she find a new life with the Israelites? Her journey to finding God’s forgiveness and mercy is deeply satisfying. I think many readers will rejoice with Rahab as she finds a new identity based upon God’s love and not man’s.

Romance lovers will be especially pleased with this novel. Yes, it has plenty of history. But the slow burn romance is perfect with a dash of humor sprinkled in. (Lower cough, anyone? You’ll just have to read for yourself). I was intrigued with Salmone’s character. As a leader under Joshua, Salmone came across a bit judgmental and aloof. Yet Rahab is nothing like he assumes. The more he discovers of Rahab, the more his preconceived notions break down. I can’t help but wonder how many of us, who have grown up in the church, are exactly like Salmone. His journey to compassion and grace is just as compelling as Rahab’s.

Bottom line? I loved this novel! It’s a perfect choice for book clubs and fans of historical fiction. A sweet romance, a strong message of redemption, and a fascinating history make this a five star read. Purchase here. I was an early reader, thanks to Moody Publishers. All opinions are my own.

This 10th anniversary edition of Pearl in the Sand includes new features that will invite you into the intriguing story of Rahab’s journey from lowly outcast to redeemed child of God.

Can a Canaanite zonah who made her living by enticing men be a fitting wife for a leader of Israel? 

Rahab’s home is built into a wall, a wall that fortifies and protects the city of Jericho. However, other walls surround her too—walls of fear, rejection, and unworthiness. Years of pain and betrayal have wounded Rahab’s heart. She wonders whether her dreams of experiencing true love will ever come true. 

A woman with a wrecked past. A man of success, of faith . . . of pride. A union only God would conceive! Through the heartaches of a stormy relationship, Rahab and Salmone learn the true source of each other’s worth and find healing in God.

About the Author

TESSA AFSHAR TESSA AFSHAR is the award-winning author of biblical and inspirational historical fiction, including Harvest of Gold which won a Christy Award and Land of Silence, which won an INSPY. The Way Home: God’s Invitation to New Beginnings is Afshar’s critically acclaimed Bible study based on the book of Ruth. Born in the Middle East, Tessa spent her teen years in England and later moved to the United States. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life. She holds a Master of Divinity from Yale, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship for a year. She worked in women and prayer ministry for twenty years before becoming a full-time writer and speaker. Contact Tessa at tessaafshar.com or on Facebook at: facebook.com/AuthorTessaAfshar/

Happy reading,

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This