Land of Silence

A wonderful story that spoke so much. Pain, love, guilt, self condemnation, family and forgiveness. It was beautiful, unfolding with so many layers. I must say at times Elianna did frustrate me, she could come off a little bratty and selfish in regards to her relationship with Ethan, in the beginning at least. Afshar's storytelling is first class and really transported me to another time and place.

This was the first Tessa Afshar book that I had read and it is excellently written. Since then I have read almost all her books. Tessa has an exceptional art to bring to life a story that is only mentioned in a few lines in the Bible and does it in such a flawless way bringing such beauty and deep meaning of the story. I could not put it down. It left me captivated, moved and also empowered my faith. Definitely one of my favourite books

The story of the woman in Matthew 9:20-22 is very brief and is told in the middle of another scenario of healing in the Bible. In Tessa Afshar's """"Land of Silence"""", the author has done a wonderful job in giving a fictional insight into who this woman could have been in her day and what her condition could have meant to her. The story and struggles of the woman needing healing are told pleasantly. I love the part where Tessa starts to describe the woman's interaction and encounter with Jesus. Tessa has indeed made this a story of hope. This is a great book to read, for those studying Biblical studies, as Tessa's approach is creative story-telling.

I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and helps you really imagine what it might have been like for the woman who reached out and touched Jesus. The characters are convincing and the story line is not what you'd expect. Another masterful tale from the very talented Tessa Afshar! I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good story set in Biblical times.