Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar

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.

The Family Fiction-sponsored Reader's Choice Award 2011 named Tessa Afshar New Author of the Year for her novel Pearl in the Sand. Before relocating to the United States, she was born in Iran, lived there for fourteen years, and attended an English boarding school. In her twenties, she converted to Christianity, which changed the path of her life permanently. Tessa earned her MDiv from Yale Divinity School, where she also served as cochair of the Evangelical Fellowship. Since then, she has dedicated her life to Christian service.