Before the King: Joanna's Story (Women of the Way, #2) by Heather Kaufman

ABOUT THE BOOK

Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family resorts to harboring a dark secret. As Joanna navigates the complexities of aristocratic life and an arranged marriage, she is caught between loyalty to her family and her own desires. When tragedy strikes, leading to a life-altering injury and a startling encounter with Herod's financial minister, Joanna must grapple with a new future--one that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love.

Years later, Joanna is forever changed when a rabbi comes preaching a new kingdom and healing the sick. Yet, she treads a perilous path between a court that mocks Jesus of Nazareth, a community of believers who views her with suspicion, and a husband who guards his own secrets. As pressure increases, Joanna must protect her allegiance to the Christ, whose message is as compelling as it is dangerous.

In this gripping narrative, rising author Heather Kaufman weaves a tale of faith, resilience, and love amid the danger of King Herod's court.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

In January 2024, I read a debut novel that remained with me the entire year and now, I already have my "talk-about-novel" for 2025! Before the King:Joanna's Story is the story of a young woman mentioned only twice in the New Testament. A narrative based on only three verses of Scripture required extensive research, and Heather Kaufman successfully weaves facts and fiction to share this powerful story. Joanna's social status appeared privileged, but her life was anything but. Her dear sister's illness (epilepsy) and her family's efforts to keep it secret scarred Joanna emotionally, her marriage to Chuza began as a marriage of convenience, and Joanna herself endured a physical ailment. Kaufman vividly portrays her emotional turmoil, doubts, and fears, until she learned about a man named Jesus!

I loved this peek into King Herod's court, the Sanhedrin, and Joanna's life of privilege, and my heart swelled during the accounts of Joanna's interaction with Jesus and His interaction with others. Scripture tells us of Jesus's love for children, his ability to understand hearts and thoughts, and his total acceptance of everyone but Kaufman's interpretation increased my insight. This is a captivating tale of hope, belief, and acceptance, and tissues are recommended for the poignant ending!

Before the King: Joanna's Story verifies Kaufman's talent for sharing God's Word through fiction and she's now on my list of favorite authors of Biblical Fiction. I look forward to book three in the Women of the Way series!

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather’s passion for storytelling started at an early age, from scribbled poetry at age six, to a full-length novel by sixteen. Over the years, her love of writing grew, eventually leading her to earn a BA in English from McKendree University and an MA in English, Writing Studies from the University of Missouri—St. Louis.

Heather is the author of multiple books and devotions and delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling.

She is married to Andrew and together they have three adorable children and one persnickety dog. When not reading, writing, editing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her family, enjoying yet another cup of coffee, or working on a home improvement  project. She and her family make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

Learn more by visiting Heather's     Website      Facebook     Instagram

WOMEN OF THE WAY

Up from Dust

Before the King

View all my reviews