Pearl In The Sand by Tessa Afshar

Rahab was forced into prostitution at the age of 15 to save her family. She deplores her trade, but manages to achieve financial independence and opens an inn for travelers and the occasional client. When Jericho's destruction seems imminent, she hides two Israelite spies and obtains a promise that she and her family will be spared from death. Rahab's choice to join the nation of Israel was easy to make, but hard to hold to. She faces rejection and Salmone, the man helping her family integrate into Israel, downright terrifies her. She knows what he sees – a prostitute, impure, unlovable woman. What she does not know is that miracles happen. Miracles of love, healing and reconciliation.

The story of Rahab has never been more romantic or powerful than it was while reading this book. I waited several days after reading the book to write this review. I just wanted to sit on it and think. I also went to the books of Joshua and Matthew in the Bible to read the times that Rahab was mentioned. I'm happy to say that the basis of the book seems to be right in line with Scripture. Of course, some of it is fictional. The Bible tells nothing of how Rahab and Salmone met and fell in love. However, the fictional parts were told in such a way that it was believable. The plot was well-written and filled with romance – a wonderful combination.

Pearl in the Sand is definitely a keeper. I highly recommend it and I have no doubt that I will read it again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."