With Easter less than a month away, here are six historical fiction novels that my family has enjoyed. These stories seek to highlight key moments in Biblical history where God worked miraculous events through the lives of normal people. I hope these books bless you and your family as we see God’s story of redemption woven throughout the entire Bible and remember Christ’s miraculous rescue mission this Easter.
Before you begin reading these stories, I would like to add the disclaimer that I can’t account for the individual beliefs of each of these authors. While the historical facts they present seem to be in accordance with Scripture, the creative liberties taken may offend some families. (Please specifically see my note on how author Elizabeth George Speare represents Jesus in The Bronze Bow.)
Tirzah
by Lucille Travis
Tirzah is a Hebrew slave, living under the cruel Pharaoh’s rule in Egypt. But when a man named Moses comes with a message from Yahweh that he will set his people free, will Pharaoh release the slaves, or will they die following Yahweh’s command?
Hittite Warrior
by Joanne Williamson
Uriah-Tarhund is the son of a Hittite lord, proud of his heritage and of his nation. But when the Acheans overtake his country and murder his family, he makes his way to Tyre in search of Sisera of Harosheth, a friend of his father. As Uriah finds himself trapped between the warring tribes of the Israelites and Canaanites, he meets a woman named Deborah and finds himself questioning his faith in the gods and the strength of Sisera’s armies.
Voice of a Servant
by Michelle Grover
Gehazi is a servant of the prophet, Elisha, but is constantly plagued with jealousy and envy. Marcus is a soldier in the household of Naaman, burdened with the responsibility of caring for his master. And Cassia is a little Israelite girl who is carried away from her homeland by an Aramean raid. When their paths cross and they all are touched by the miraculous saving work of Yahweh, will they listen to His call?
God King
by Joanne Williamson
Prince Taharka was never supposed to ascend to the throne of Kush and Egypt. But in a sudden reversal of authorities, he is gifted the throne and every curse that comes with it. But someone else is after Taharka’s throne, and when he is forced to flee for his life, solace may only be found in the northern kingdom of Judea.
The Bronze Bow
by Elizabeth George Speare
Daniel bar Jamin was only a child when he witnessed his father’s crucifixion by the hands of the Romans. Now, at eighteen, his entire life’s purpose is to purge the Romans from Israel. But a new teacher from Nazareth is stirring up the attention of the Romans and Jews alike. Is this Jesus of Nazareth the promised Messiah who will lead the zealots to victory?
Twice Freed
by Patricia St. John
Onesimus is a slave who will do anything for freedom. When he is accused of stealing from a goldsmith, Onesimus knows that Archippus, his young master, is to blame. Determined for revenge, Onesimus’ actions lead to mistakes he would do anything to change.
